Plans proposed for international trade port in Kawthaung
95
Phyo/ Pearl (NP News) - February 4
A businessman suggested through The Statesman that an international-class trade port should be built in Kawthaung, a trade town on the Thailand-Myanmar border in Tanintharyi Region.
Local products, including sea products, rubber, and CMP-made textiles, are exported to Ranong, Thailand through the Kawthaung- Ranong border trade gate, while consumer goods, construction materials, and fuel are imported from Thailand.
“An international-standard trade port should be established in Kawthaung through cooperation with the government in the public sector. If it is to be done, it should be implemented quickly so that results can come quickly within two or three years. It would be beneficial for residents. A free trade zone could also be created. All goods could be stored on our side. In that case, since everything would be under our customs authority, the goods would not go missing. At present, because operations are centered on Ranong, only the Thai side benefits,” he said.
Currently, only the Ranong side of Thailand is benefiting from trade, and if an international trade port can be built in Kawthaung, it will create jobs for locals and the state will also receive more tax revenue.
“If we can establish a major port on our side and create a Free Zone, ships from various regions would be able to dock here. With a Free Zone, we could also generate revenue from storage fees. However, the port still needs to be upgraded to international standards. Currently, the Royal Bridge is located inside the town, making it difficult for large trucks to maneuver. If a separate zone is designated and developed, it would be much more convenient,” he said.
Along Myanmar’s coastline, there are nine ports, including Yangon Port, Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, Thandwe, Pathein, Mawlamyine, Dawei, Myeik, and Kawthaung. Among them, Yangon is the country’s main port.
Currently, preparations are underway to build an international-class port near Mawlamyine, Mon State, and deep-sea ports are being prepared in Dawei, Tanintharyi Region, and Kyaukphyu, Rakhine State. –