Infrastructure market in Thailand

Thailand has long benefited from its strategic location at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia to drive its economic development.

The Thai government continues to advance the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), building on the success of the Eastern Seaboard.

The EEC envisions creating a next-generation “growth area” to realize “Thailand 4.0” strategy. This strategy promotes sustainable economic growth based on the “New S-Curve” industries focused on research, innovation, and the digital economy.

Key opportunities for Canadian infrastructure companies in Thailand

Canadian companies are well-positioned to support Thailand’s infrastructure ambitions. The strategic advantage is Export Development Canada (EDC), which opened its first permanent office in Bangkok in May 2025. EDC provides Canadian firms with direct access to financing, risk mitigation tools, and on-the-ground expertise. These services give businesses a competitive edge compared to firms from countries without similar institutional support.

There are 3 flagship infrastructure megaprojects at the core of these infrastructure plans:

  • High-speed rail linking Bangkok’s international airports at Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi, with the emerging aerospace hub at U-Tapao International Airport. The project is scheduled to begin construction soon. When completed, this will seamlessly link Bangkok with the future “Aerotropolis” at U-Tapao.
  • The Laem Cha Bang deep seaport (Phase 3) upgrade seeks to increase its total cargo capacity to 18.1 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEU) per year using the automated system and advanced full-scale services. This project has an estimated cost of CAD 4.2 billion. Construction is ongoing, with phased completion expected by 2027.
  • Development of the U-Tapao International Airport and its “Aerotropolis”, promoting investments in aerospace and aviation-related industries. The Thai government has been in discussions with major international aerospace firms to develop aircraft maintenance and related facilities. This USD 650 billion upgrade is being undertaken as a public-private partnership (P3). The project will support the country’s vision of becoming an ASEAN technological, manufacturing and service hub with strong connectivity to its neighbors, the ASEAN region, and beyond.

Industry highlights

CAD 1 billion in Canadian exports to Thailand in 2024. 

CAD 14.4 billion budgeted by the Thai government for transport projects in 2024. 

CAD 5.3 billion of Canadian imports from Thailand in 2024.

Notable challenges for Canadian infrastructure companies in Thailand

  • The most effective way to do business in Thailand is to have a local presence, or form a partnership with a local company.
  • There is strong competition from major countries like China, Japan and Korea, which often provide bundled financing and technical assistance packages.
  • Pursuing most of the major infrastructure opportunities requires regular face-to-face meetings.

Thailand business landscape

Thailand has several P3 projects in its pipeline that are of interest to potential Canadian partners, as well as suppliers of goods and services. Given a linited government budget, P3s are play an important role in driving these projects.

To attract more foreign direct investment (FDI), the Thai government is expanding and upgrading its major transportation and logistics facilities, which will support and attract investment opportunities for foreign companies.

Recently, Thailand’s PPP Committee approved a revision to the Public-Private Joint Venture Project Delivery Plan for 2020 to 2027. The revised plan reduces the number from 92 to 77 projects in the pipeline, now valued at CAD 45 billion.

This updated plan plays a key role in establishing a clearer P3 policy framework, providing guidance for both public and private sectors, especially in prioritizing P3 projects.

Notable high priority P3 projects include:

  • Expressway Sai Kathu – Patong Phuket: construction for this CAD 400 million project is expected to begin in 2026, with completion targeted for 2030.
  • The MRT Orange Line Project - Bang Khun Non - Min Buri (Suwinthawong): The MRT Orange Line Project is a CAD 8.71 billion project extending a dual underground and elevated transit system by approximately 35.9 kilometers. The route connects Bangkok on an east-west axi, improving public transportationin areas through which it passes. Construction began in August 2024, and operations are expected to begin partially in 2028. 
  • Development of a rest area along the Chonburi - Pattaya Motorway: This CAD 63.2 million project aims to facilitate and to support the safety of Chonburi – Pattaya Motorway Road Users. The project falls under the responsibility of the Department of Highways’ Ministry of Transportation and should be in partial operation by the end of 2026.

Summary

Thailand remains an attractive market for infrastructure and P3 investment because of its large budget for improving logistics, healthcare, public services, and innovation. Many of these initiatives are structured as P3 projects. Thailand aims to become a regional business leader. To achieve that goal, it is committed to improving its infrastructure and welcomes collaboration with Canadian companies in the P3 sector. 

With EDC’s support and the strong demand for expertise in Thailand’s growing P3 market, Canadian firms are well-placed to participate in upcoming infrastructure projects and contribute to Thailand’s long-term economic and technological development.

For more information on Infrastructure in the Thailand market please contact Ekasit Chunlakittiphan (ekasit.chunlakittiphan@international.gc.ca), Trade Commissioner for the infrastructure sector in Thailand. 

Additional Information

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