The Transport Ministry is pushing ahead with plans to upgrade the rail transport and tourism sectors by developing a world-class luxury train service, leveraging newly enacted rail legislation to attract private-sector investment and boost local economies.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, accompanied by Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat, State Railway of Thailand (SRT) governor Anan Phonimdaeng, Department of Rail Transport deputy director-general Athiphu Chit-anukroh, and Piang-or Laohavilai, director of the Rail Technology Research and Development Institute, met executives from Minor International, led by chairman William Heinecke, to discuss plans for a luxury tourist train project.
The meeting focused on creating a premium rail tourism experience aimed at generating sustainable revenue for the SRT while stimulating grassroots economic activity across the country.
Mr Phiphat said the initiative aligns with the recently enacted Rail Transport Act, which opens the sector to greater private-sector participation in rail investment and operations.
He said the project would maximise the use of Thailand's rail infrastructure, attract high-spending international travellers, and channel tourism revenue to local communities along railway routes. The Transport Ministry also plans to coordinate with the Tourism and Sports Ministry and the Tourism Authority of Thailand to develop attractive rail tourism routes linking both major and secondary destinations, incorporating local stories and cultural experiences to enhance visitor appeal.
