[Latest Update] Laem Chabang Port Congestion Triggers Immediate Action

On June 3, 2025, the Import-Export Transportation Association of Thailand issued an urgent update regarding the worsening Laem Chabang Port congestion. In cooperation with the Eastern Freight Transport Association, Chonburi Laem Chabang Logistics Association, Eastern Thailand Freight Club, and other key logistics players, a special task force was formed and has been actively working for nearly two months to relieve the ongoing crisis.

At a press conference held at 10:35 AM, Dr. Sunthorn Pajon, President of the Association, shared the current progress and action plans aimed at providing both short-term relief and long-term infrastructure improvements for Thailand’s busiest deep-sea port.

📉 Critical Situation: Laem Chabang Port Congestion Worsens

The issue of Laem Chabang Port congestion has become increasingly serious. The situation is no longer a routine delay—it is now a structural bottleneck impacting the national supply chain.

⏱️ Delays Impact Trucking Operations

From April to May 2025, average truck waiting times at the port exceeded 10 hours, with some trucks queued for over 24 hours. These delays cost operators approximately 200 THB per hour per truck, contributing to increased transportation costs, health challenges for drivers, and inefficient fleet utilization. In many cases, truck turnover was significantly reduced, causing companies to miss new delivery opportunities.

📦 Container Volume Surge

Another driving factor is the unprecedented growth in container volume. From 2020–2023, Laem Chabang Port saw an average annual growth of 2.2%, or approximately 200,000 TEUs per year. However, in 2024, the volume surged by 8%, adding nearly 700,000 TEUs. This growth, equivalent to three years of expansion, continued into 2025, with the first four months alone already seeing an additional 8% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

🚢 Import Container Backlog

The inability to promptly clear import containers has left storage yards overwhelmed. As inbound containers continue to pile up, available space becomes increasingly limited, leading to port congestion and operational inefficiencies.

⚠️ Lack of Integrated Logistics Management

A major contributor to the congestion is the absence of a centralized truck queue system, insufficient holding zones for outbound containers, and no integrated digital coordination for terminal operations. Compounding the issue, vessel delays often cause outbound containers to remain idle in port longer than planned, worsening the already limited space.

✅ Immediate Solutions Underway

To address the Laem Chabang Port congestion crisis, the task force has proposed five immediate measures:

Accelerated Container Clearance
- Importers are encouraged to pick up inbound cargo quickly.
- Exporters are advised to delay returning containers until vessels are confirmed or terminal gates are officially open.
Daily Involvement from the Port Authority (TLC)
- The Laem Chabang Port Authority has begun daily monitoring and intervention, including repairs of infrastructure and active coordination with logistics stakeholders.
Temporary Drop-Off Zones
- Containers waiting over 4–5 hours can now be offloaded into designated storage zones to reduce truck congestion.
Mandatory Truck Queue System (100%)
- A digital scheduling system for trucks is now required, and enforcement zones for queued vehicles are being implemented.
Review of Storage Tariffs
- Port authorities are considering a revised tariff structure to discourage unnecessary storage and incentivize faster cargo turnover.

🚀 Long-Term Vision: Toward a Smart and Sustainable Port

Dr. Sunthorn also outlined a strategic roadmap for the future of Laem Chabang Port, focusing on both digital transformation and sustainable logistics:

📡 True Smart Port Development

Implementation of AI-driven truck scheduling
Targeted container transfer windows limited to 3 hours
Seamless integration with rail and marine transport to enhance multimodal logistics

🌱 Green Logistics for Sustainable Growth

Reducing CO₂ emissions and improving fuel efficiency
Avoiding use of port terminals as long-term storage warehouses
Advancing eco-conscious logistics standards and infrastructure

The completion of Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 by 2028 remains a top priority. Once operational, it will significantly increase port capacity and help alleviate future congestion risks.

🧭 Conclusion & Ongoing Coordination

The Laem Chabang Port congestion issue is not yet fully resolved, but substantial progress is being made. The collaborative effort between private associations and government authorities is a positive signal that Thailand is proactively managing its most vital trade gateway.

The Import-Export Transportation Association continues to issue regular updates to stakeholders and encourages ongoing cooperation to ensure the port system remains resilient, efficient, and future-ready.

🎥 Watch full press update by Dr. Sunthorn on Youtube for full newss content and information

🙏 Special thanks to the official update shared on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/192itPBCFS/

Urgent Measures to Tackle Laem Chabang Port Congestion: Import-Export Transport Association Leads the Charge