Adaptation Strategy for Chiang Khong Port after the Opening of the Forth Thailand-Lao PDR Friendship Bridge

Abstract

This study aims at evaluating potential impacts of the forth Thailand-Lao PDR friendship bridge on the Chiang Khong river port, and offering suggestions  to the port after the bridge has been fully operated. Research tools used in this study include descriptive statistics, time-series analysis, field observation on current international trading and transportation activities, and in-depth interview with 73 stakeholders in the study areas. It is found that the logistics activities at the port as part of an international transport network are likely to reduce possibly even to zero after the bridge is open. Nevertheless, there are a few potential activities for the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) to consider for enhancing transit-transport connectivity between northern Mekong sub-region and Lam Chabang Port. For example,    a development of dry port, inland container depot (ICD) or multimodal transport facility are some of those potentials.