The Prime Minister said the land bridge will be discussed later, focusing first on developing the “Missing Link” connecting the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, alongside expanding Ranong Port to accommodate goods. He emphasized the government always listens to the people.
9 Aug 2026 GMT+7 Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul said during his chairmanship of the unity cloth offering ceremony to support medical equipment at Ranong Hospital about the land bridge project that currently it does not exist and that is fine because it is not yet cost-effective. Once it becomes worthwhile, then it will be considered. However, what will happen is the establishment of a transport system to connect the missing parts. Technically, in meetings as a minister or in national development planning discussions, this is called the “Missing Link.” Ranong can enable a connection between the Andaman side and the Gulf of Thailand side.
The Prime Minister added, “We have Chumphon and Surat Thani, and we will create the Missing Link there, as well as develop Ranong Port to become more significant, capable of handling more goods and containers.” While the volume is not yet sufficient to justify a large-scale project like the land bridge, we must start by laying the groundwork. “One day, people will see that goods from Europe entering through Ranong can go straight to the southern tip of Thailand, then up the west side to the north without passing through Bangkok, reaching China. Thai goods can also be exported via Ranong to India, the Middle East, and Europe.”
Anutin further revealed that if this convenience is realized, it is like opening a new shop that begins with small sales and gradually expands. The framework and studies are already completed. If expansion is needed in any form, we are ready to do so. Currently, some oppose the land bridge. The people of Ranong and Chumphon need to understand this. If locals say the project benefits the community, they should advocate for it. I fear those opposing are not from here, but if the people of Ranong, Chumphon, or nearby provinces say no, then it will not proceed.
But if the opportunity arises and we refuse it, I believe the people of Ranong, Chumphon, and the South will not let it pass. The government always listens to the people, considers the overall picture, and assesses what is best for Thailand. For Ranong today, there is no loss — there will be a complete and integrated transport route, and we will gradually consider further expansion in the future.