Phiphat considers relocating Bangkok port for casino-free complex

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has ordered a study into the long-term phasing-out of cargo operations at Bangkok Port in Khlong Toei, aiming to consolidate the nation's maritime trade at Laem Chabang Port and redevelop the prime 376.8 hectares of riverside land into a casino-free entertainment complex.

Speaking after delivering policy directives to the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), Phiphat stated that operating two major container ports creates unnecessary administrative overhead and traffic congestion in the capital.

Centralising maritime freight operations at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri would streamline logistics, lower shipping costs and better accommodate large ocean-going vessels that face navigation constraints along the Chao Phraya River.

He said “Bangkok Port currently handles roughly 1.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of container traffic per year, whereas Laem Chabang boasts a capacity of 8 to 10 million TEUs and can easily accommodate deep-draft cargo ships directly.”

As part of the initiative, Phiphat instructed the Ministry of Transport to review past Cabinet resolutions, to ascertain whether a formal phase-out plan for Khlong Toei was already mandated when Laem Chabang Port was originally constructed. If a prior resolution exists, the ministry will align its actions accordingly.

Otherwise, a formal proposal would be drafted in consultation with the PAT and submitted to the Cabinet.

The transport chief has ordered a pause on the existing master plan for the Khlong Toei estate, calling for a total overhaul to align with the proposed port relocation.

Under the new vision, the entire expanse will be developed into a unified project, rather than in a piecemeal manner.

Preliminary plans for the redeveloped site envision a major commercial and leisure hub, featuring a dedicated cruise terminal, tourist facilities, commercial spaces and high-end real estate developments through long-term private sector concessions to generate sustained revenue for the PAT.

To address the surrounding local population, up to 96 hectares of the plot will be earmarked to construct modern high-rise residential housing for the Khlong Toei slum community, which encompasses more than 12,600 households and roughly 40,000 residents.

The residential precinct will include public parks, schools, day-care centres and healthcare facilities.

Phiphat offered an assurance that Bangkok Port will continue to operate as normal in the immediate future, while comprehensive feasibility studies, public hearings and consultations with community representatives, the PAT board and relevant government agencies are conducted.