The government has ordered tighter controls on the Thai-Myanmar border following incidents of cross-border fighting with bullets landing on Thai soil, suspending import-export concessions at some checkpoints in Mae Sot and Phop Phra from 30 October to 5 November 2026. Officials stress this is not a full border closure and aims to protect public safety.
On 2 November 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertwiwatthana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul prioritizes the safety of lives and property of people living along the Thai-Myanmar border. Following clashes in Myanmar, security agencies in the area have increased strict control over border trade routes in Mae Sot and Phop Phra districts, Tak Province, after stray bullets crossed into Thailand causing damage to residents' homes.
Ms. Lalida said the Naresuan Task Force and local security agencies have notified Mae Sot Customs to suspend import-export concessions through all routes except the officially approved ones, covering areas south of the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge 1 in Mae Sot district and Phop Phra district, Tak Province, for seven days from 30 October to 5 November 2026 or until the situation stabilizes. This aims to control the border situation, prevent the transport of goods that might support armed forces in Myanmar, and reduce risks to local residents' safety.
She explained that this measure suspends concessions only on specified routes and areas as announced; it does not mean a full border closure or halt all trade between Thailand and Myanmar. Import-export via approved routes must still comply with laws, regulations, and conditions set by relevant agencies. Operators should check transport route status and product-specific conditions with Mae Sot Customs before proceeding.
Ms. Lalida added that the government has instructed the governor of Tak Province and security officers to closely monitor the situation and provide assistance to residents affected by the fighting. There have been reports of property damage to homes and one injury treated at Mae Sot Hospital. Local authorities have visited affected areas to assess the situation and offer help.
For residents and operators needing to travel or transport goods through the border area, they are urged to closely follow announcements from Tak Province, the Naresuan Task Force, and Mae Sot Customs. Since the measures are set until 5 November 2026 or until the situation improves, they should verify the status of routes before travel or shipment and not assume all routes will automatically reopen after the deadline.
“The government affirms that the safety of residents along the border is the highest priority. This control measure targets preventing impacts from the fighting and maintaining order in the area by restricting only certain routes, not closing the entire border. The government will closely monitor the situation while supporting residents and minimizing disruption to cross-border trade. We ask the public to rely on official information to avoid misunderstandings,” Ms. Lalida said.