Thailand is planning major infrastructure projects for 2022. Cumulatively valued at over USD 45 billion, these mega-infrastructure projects aim at improving the country’s land, sea, and air connectivity.
Key examples of the planned projects include upgrading the main Suvarnabhumi airport, a dry port for containers, and a high-speed rail project linking Thailand with China, via Laos. Out of a total of 36 projects, 11 are road transport schemes, 20 are rail ones, three are aviation projects and two are maritime transport schemes.
In January 2022, Thailand’s Transport Minister announced that projects accounting for over a third of the budget have already been approved. The majority of the budget will be destined for the procurement of raw materials and equipment for the projects. It is expected that the investment will bring in revenues of USD 12.4 billion per year, equivalent to about 2.35% of Thailand’s GDP, increasing Thailand’s competitiveness in terms of logistics and transport.
Meanwhile, the cabinet of Thailand recently approved a USD 65 million budget from the central fund to repair public transport infrastructure damaged by flooding in 17 provinces which lasted for six months in 2021.
(Sources: Bangkok Post; The Nation)
