PM Srettha races to transform Rayong and Chon Buri

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin led a delegation to Rayong and Chon Buri last Sunday, June 23, to inspect pivotal projects within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

At Rayong’s U-Tapao International Airport, PM Srettha scrutinised the progress of an ambitious project aimed at linking the airport with a high-speed rail network that will connect three major airports.

“This network is set to revolutionise transportation from Bangkok’s eastern outskirts to the city centre, turbocharging economic growth, trade, and tourism across the EEC.”

The Bangkok-born PM pressed the Ministry of Transport and the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) to hasten construction, pledging to provide detailed updates on the rail project by the end of July.

The next stop was Chon Buri, where the prime minister, alongside Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, evaluated plans for a Formula 1 racing route at Jomtien Beach. The government aims to lure international tourists by hosting F1 races starting in 2028, with the potential for Formula E events as well.

“This initiative will place Thailand on the global motorsport map and drive tourism.”

The delegation’s final destination was Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri’s Sri Racha district. They inspected the ongoing Phase 3 of the port development project. Accompanied by officials from the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) and the CNNC joint venture, the Thai premier observed that Phase 1, including land reclamation, dredging, and wave breaker construction, is 13.26% complete.

With an eye on the June 2026 deadline, efforts are being ramped up to ensure timely completion. Phase 2, involving the construction of docks and infrastructure, has been assigned to China Harbor Engineering Co., Ltd., while phases three and four are in the contractor selection phase.

Upon completion, Laem Chabang Port will boost container capacity from 11 million TEUs to 18 million TEUs annually, significantly enhancing Thailand’s rail and coastal shipping capabilities. This development aligns with the government’s strategic objective to reduce transportation costs from 14% to 12% of GDP, reinforcing Thailand’s economic resilience and growth, reported Pattaya Mail.

ORIGINAL STORY: PM Srettha shifts gears: Sunday tour to assess F1 potential

Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be touring Chon Buri and Rayong this Sunday to assess commercial developments, scope out a potential Formula One race route, and review pivotal government projects.

According to PM’s Office spokesperson Chai Wacharonke, the prime minister’s agenda kicks off at Rayong’s U-Tapao International Airport. He and his delegation will meet with local authorities to discuss the progress and development of commercial areas aimed at boosting investment in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

From Rayong, the Thai premier will shift gears to Chon Buri’s Banglamung district, where he will inspect a proposed route for a future F1 race around Khao Phra Tamnak. This ambitious project is a key part of the government’s strategy to draw international tourists and position Thailand as a prime global destination for major sporting events.

Next on the premier’s agenda is a visit to Laem Chabang Port in Sri Racha district. PM Srettha will monitor the advancement of the Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 development project, ensuring its timely progress and addressing any logistical hurdles, reported The Nation.

“The prime minister has emphasised the importance of developing the EEC, enhancing logistics infrastructure, and improving urban areas to support industrial and technological investments.

“These efforts signal to the world that Thailand is ripe for investment, attracting foreign investors to the region. Furthermore, the proposed F1 race route is another strategic move to lure international tourists to Thailand.”