Thailand, Japan deepen transport, infrastructure cooperation

Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has met with Japanese Ambassador Otaka Masato to advance cooperation in Thailand’s transportation and infrastructure projects.

The meeting, held at the Thai Ministry of Transport, was attended by senior officials from both countries and focused on Japan’s continued involvement in key development areas.

Discussions covered progress on urban rail projects, including the Red Line, the Purple Line (South), and upcoming routes such as the Brown, Grey, and Silver Lines, which are part of Bangkok’s expanding mass transit master plan.

Thailand expressed openness to further collaboration on railway systems, maintenance technology, and workforce development - areas where Japan is recognized as a global leader.

Both sides also explored opportunities beyond rail, including logistics and smart urban development. Japan’s Urban Renaissance Agency expressed interest in developing the Bang Sue area through Transit-Oriented Development and Smart Mobility models, with the aim of turning the district into a regional hub.

At Laem Chabang Port, Japan continues to play an active role in berth management, indicating strong private-sector confidence in Thailand’s logistics potential.

The Thai Ministry of Transport also proposed expanding its memorandum of understanding with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism to include cooperation in road safety, including tunnel systems, bridge engineering, and traffic management.