According to official media, which cited the transport minister, Malaysia intends to launch a direct rail cargo service between its capital Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok in neighboring Thailand this year in an effort to increase regional and bilateral trade. The idea was approved by the prime minister and cabinet, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and the rail service is anticipated to start operating later this year.
According to Loke, “a direct rail link between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok will also improve connectivity to other countries, including Laos, China, and Central Asia.” The plan was not described in depth in the report. A request for comment was not immediately answered by a representative of Thailand’s transport ministry. Last year, Malaysia announced that it will think about extending a $10 billion rail project led by China to its Thai border.
By the end of 2026, the 665-kilometer (413-mile) line that would connect Malaysia’s east and west coasts should be finished. Malaysia and Thailand’s biggest trading partner is China. While Malaysia and Thailand are subject to US import taxes of 24% and 36%, respectively, US President Donald Trump has placed 145% tariffs on China.
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