ก.คมนาคม–อุตสาหกรรม จับมือยกระดับระบบราง หนุนไทยสู่ศูนย์กลางโลจิสติกส์ภูมิภาคTransport and Industry Ministries Collaborate to Enhance Rail Systems, Supporting Thailand as a Regional Logistics Hub

On August 1, 2025, Mr. Isares Ratandilok na Phuket, Vice Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), participated in the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the integration of transportation systems to support the manufacturing sector and enhance the country's rail transport system, concurrently opening the 2025 Industry Fair. The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Ekanaht Phrompan, Minister of Industry, along with Mr. Surayud Chulanont, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, who served as witnesses at the event held at Bangkok Apivathan Central Station.

The event saw the participation of distinguished figures, including Mr. Chayatham Promsa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mr. Natthaphon Rangsitpol, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Mr. Thaworn Cholasetian, Vice Chairman of the FTI, Mr. Thanathorn Trongsitthiwit, Chairman of the Environmental Management Industry Group of the FTI, and Mrs. Yuphinoo Boonsirijun, Chairwoman of the Automotive Industry Group and Chairwoman of the Modern Automotive Cluster (CFM-ONE) of the FTI.

The MOU aims to develop and enhance Thailand's capabilities in designing and manufacturing railway systems domestically with modern and internationally standardized technology. This initiative will be implemented over a period of five years to support the reduction of import and maintenance costs while promoting the development of domestic industries to compete effectively on the global stage. The four main objectives include: 1. Promoting the production and use of locally manufactured components to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the foundational industries of Thailand; 2. Supporting the transfer of technology and knowledge to elevate production, design, and maintenance standards of rail systems to be at par with international standards; 3. Developing the skills and potential of Thai labor to effectively meet the future demands of the rail industry; and 4. Ensuring the stability of the rail industry both domestically and for expansion into international markets.

This collaboration marks a significant starting point for establishing the “Future Rail Industry” of Thailand, based on the potential of Thai people, Thai technology, and genuine Thai industries. Additionally, it represents a key step in driving policies aimed at developing infrastructure alongside enhancing the capabilities of the Thai industrial sector.

Moreover, the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Transport jointly organized the 2025 Industry Fair under the theme "Industrial Railways Bring Happiness to the Thai People," a major product exhibition featuring automobiles and motorcycles (Motor Show), electrical appliances, products from Sahapat Group, consumer goods, clothing, jewelry, food, crafts, and decorations from July 31 to August 3, 2025, at Bangkok Apivathan Central Station, allowing the public to purchase factory-priced goods to alleviate cost of living burdens, while also promoting opportunities for automotive entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), community enterprises (OTOP), and local manufacturers to sell products directly, thereby opening marketing opportunities and stimulating the economy.