In a historic move, Thailand and China have inaugurated their maiden direct cargo rail link, establishing a vital connection between Nong Khai in Thailand and Chongqing in China through Laos. The inaugural service, transporting Thai agricultural products like dried longan, signifies a major milestone in bolstering rail connectivity within the framework of the New Land-Sea Corridor project.
Chongqing, a prominent city in southwestern China, assumes a central role in this ambitious initiative aimed at enhancing trade routes spanning Southeast Asia, China, and Europe.
The ceremony in Nong Khai on December 29 witnessed the presence of Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Captain Thamanat Prompow, alongside representatives from various Thai and Chinese logistics and railway companies. Simultaneously, a train departed from Chongqing, carrying industrial sodium sulfate destined for Thailand.
This groundbreaking cargo rail link aligns with the expansive Belt and Road Initiative, a strategic effort to establish extensive trade routes connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. Anticipated to catalyse increased trade and economic collaboration, the initiative fosters new growth opportunities and partnerships between these regions.
