Chanthaburi: Citizens and businesses continue to hold differing views on the reopening of Cambodian border checkpoints. Border residents express concerns over trust and potential territorial losses, while the business sector pushes for reopening to boost economic activity.
According to Thai News Agency, the Chanthaburi permanent border checkpoint remains subject to current regulations amidst ongoing discussions about its closure and reopening. At present, both checkpoints in Pong Nam Ron District-the Ban Laem permanent checkpoint in Thep Nimit Subdistrict and the Ban Pakkat permanent checkpoint in Khlong Yai Subdistrict-adhere to their regular hours of operation, which are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Currently, only Cambodian workers are allowed to cross the border for returning to their home country and for humanitarian reasons.
The local trade environment remains stable without any open border crossings, despite the optimism generated by the Thailand-Cambodia General Border Committee (GBC) meeting. Entrepreneurs and businesses in Chanthaburi Province hope that reopening the border will help stimulate the economy. Chanthaburi, considered less tense compared to other border areas, is viewed as a potential pilot area for easing restrictions to mitigate economic challenges.
Conversely, some local residents oppose reopening the border, citing a lack of trust in Cambodia's intentions and concerns over Thailand's territorial sovereignty. They urge the government and military to provide clear communication and build trust before proceeding with any plans to open the border, emphasizing the need to resolve ongoing conflicts.