BANGKOK, (NNT) – Private entrepreneurs have proposed that the government allow them to wholly invest in the Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 project.
Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith led a group of private operators to have a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak, with an aim to enable them to learn more about the government’s investment policy for the development of Phase 3 of Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port.
During the discussion, the operators suggested amendments to the previously-made joint investment deal, in which the government would contribute 37 billion baht in investment capital and the private sector would be responsible for another 46 billion baht. They proposed that the private sector take over the entire project and that the concession remain in effect for 60 years. The government will now have to study related laws and consult the State Enterprise Policy Office about the matter.
According to Mr Arkhom, the new phase of Laem Chabang Port will allow the facility to handle up to 3 million containers and accommodate large cargo ships. Such improvement will help boost Thailand’s sea freight and export capacity and raise its competitiveness against neighboring countries.
