Thailand and Myanmar expect to have cars travelling on three routes between both countries this September, in a move set to bolster the regional economy.
Each country will be granted 100 licences for their transport operators, who can drive hundreds of kilometres into the inner areas of the countries, including to Yangon and a port near the Thilawa Special Economic Zone in Myanmar, and Bangkok and Laem Chabang port in Chon Buri, Land Transport Department chief Phiraphon Thawonsuphacharoen said on Friday.
"We're selecting and examining operators' qualifications," he said, referring to a process required by the Greater Mekong Subregion Cross-Border Transport Agreement. The routes, which start from Myawaddy-Mae Sot border checkpoint are aimed at supporting international tourism and logistics, Mr Phiraphon said.
Drivers from Thailand can begin their trips in Tak's Mae Sot district and cross the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge to Myawaddy, Yangon and Thilawa port. Those from Myanmar can choose from two options; the Myawaddy-Mae Sot checkpoint-Mukdahan route and Mae Sot-Bangkok-Laem Chabang route.
Thailand has also signed the same cross-border transport agreement with Laos, Vietnam, Mr Phiraphon said.