Cambodia closes Ban Laem border checkpoint in Chanthaburi, halting cross-border trade and causing chaos for workers
The Thai-Cambodian border situation became tense after Cambodia suddenly closed the gate at the Ban Laem border checkpoint in Chanthaburi Province on Friday.
The closure, carried out without prior notice, has severely disrupted cross-border trade, leaving freight trucks stranded and causing confusion among business operators and Cambodian workers.
The incident occurred in the morning of June 13 at the Ban Laem permanent border checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi Province. Cambodian officials abruptly closed the border gate without informing Thai authorities, leading to chaos at the checkpoint. Business operators and workers were left confused, as they could not proceed as usual.
The unexpected closure has had a significant impact on cross-border trade. Numerous freight trucks were stuck at the checkpoint, unable to travel in or out as normal. This has effectively halted border trade at the Ban Laem checkpoint. Many business operators expressed concerns over the potential damage to perishable goods and delays in meeting delivery deadlines.
While Cambodia’s side of the border remains closed, the Thai border checkpoint continues to operate as usual. Travel for ordinary citizens is still possible, but the only significant movement observed was Cambodian workers returning to their home country.
The situation at the Ban Laem border checkpoint remains fluid, and it is crucial to closely monitor whether Cambodian authorities will provide clarification on the reason for the closure and outline the next steps. This will directly affect the recovery of cross-border trade and the flow of people in the region.
