Thailand has revived an ambitious $30 billion “Land Bridge” project designed to connect the country’s eastern Gulf of Thailand and western Andaman Sea coasts, positioning it as a potential alternative to the heavily used Strait of Malacca shipping route.
The proposal envisions a 1 trillion baht logistics corridor linking two new deep-sea ports in Chumphon on the Gulf side and Ranong on the Andaman coast. Goods would be transferred across a 90-kilometre overland route using a standard-gauge railway, supported by highways and integrated road networks, before being reloaded onto ships on the opposite coast.
The plan has been revived in the wake of renewed global focus on energy and trade security following conflicts in the Middle East, including tensions affecting key maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. Thai authorities argue that global supply chains remain overly dependent on narrow sea passages such as Malacca, which handles a large share of Asia-Europe and Asia-Middle East cargo flows.
Officials estimate the corridor could reduce logistics costs by nearly 30 percent and shorten transit times by up to two weeks on certain routes. Government projections also suggest that feeder cargo movements could become more efficient due to reduced congestion compared to trans-shipment hubs like Singapore.
However, analysts and researchers say the project faces significant economic and logistical challenges, including high capital costs, complex cargo handling through “double transfer” operations, and uncertain investor interest. While some see potential for a smaller-scale strategic logistics route, doubts remain over whether it can compete with established maritime pathways.
The project is also facing opposition from local communities along the proposed route, particularly fishing and farming populations who fear displacement and environmental disruption. Authorities are currently reviewing environmental and impact assessments, with findings expected later this year.
