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Thai Military Regrets Impact on Laos Following Chong Mek Export Restrictions

This Week

Thailand’s Defence Ministry has apologized to Laos following the temporary suspension of fuel and military-related exports at the Chong Mek border checkpoint, a measure linked to heightened security concerns along the Thai-Cambodian border.

Unusually High Shipments Prompt Restrictions

Thai authorities imposed the restrictions on 15 December after detecting unusually high volumes of fuel shipments passing through the Chong Mek permanent border crossing in Sirindhorn district, Ubon Ratchathani.

The Second Army Area Operations Center reported that inspections uncovered abnormal export levels compared with previous periods, with some shipments reportedly routed through Laos before being forwarded to Cambodia. 

The order took effect at 12:00 am on the same day, and suspended all fuel exports, along with military equipment and related items, at the Chong Mek permanent border crossing in Sirindhorn district, Ubon Ratchathani. 

Other cross-border activities continue under existing rules, and the suspension will remain in place until further notice.

Thailand Emphasizes Measure Not Directed at Laos

Speaking at a Joint Press Center briefing on the Thai-Cambodian border situation, Defence Ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri said Thai authorities understood the impact of the restrictions on Laos but stressed that the measures were not directed at Lao trade.

He emphasized that Thailand continues to respect Laos’ sovereignty and bilateral relationship, describing the restrictions as a necessary security step under current circumstances.

Thai officials added that the controls aim solely to prevent the misuse of sensitive goods during a period of heightened regional tension.

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