Thailand’s high-speed rail project, which will connect the country to China through Laos, is now expected to begin in 2030. The 609-kilometer rail line will link Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima, with more than a third of the work already completed. Once finished, the rail will extend to Nong Khai, near the border with Laos.
This rail project is part of a larger regional effort to improve travel and trade. A separate rail line between Laos and China was completed in 2021, connecting Vientiane to Kunming. This line will eventually connect with Thailand’s rail at Nong Khai.
The Thai government sees this project as an important step to boost the country’s economy. It will help Thailand become a central hub for trade and transport in Southeast Asia, connecting with China and Laos.
While the rail project was originally planned to open in 2021, it has faced delays due to financing problems, disagreements on design, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, once finished, it is expected to greatly improve Thailand’s transport network.
