Thailand is set to complete its high-speed rail project connecting to China by 2030, despite slow progress since construction began in 2017. The government has announced that the first phase of the railway, linking Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima, is now 36% complete and is expected to be finished by 2027.
The second phase, extending the line to Nong Khai near the Laos border, has already been designed and is awaiting cabinet approval. Once completed, this railway will connect to the China-Laos Railway, allowing passengers to travel from Bangkok to Kunming and further into China via its extensive high-speed rail network.
The project is expected to cost 434 billion baht ($12.9 billion). Thai authorities emphasize that this railway will strengthen the country’s position as a regional logistics hub and improve economic ties with China.
However, the project has faced multiple delays due to cost disagreements, land acquisition issues, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Frustrated by the slow progress, China has urged Thailand to accelerate construction. Since taking office in 2023, the Thai government has pledged to fast-track the railway to attract more Chinese trade and tourism.
While the government initially aimed to complete the project by 2028, the 2030 target remains uncertain due to past setbacks.
