The Ministry of Transport is moving forward with policies to elevate the rail transport system alongside promoting tourism. On June 24, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, together with officials from relevant agencies, discussed with Minor International Public Company Limited (SET: MINT), led by Chairman William E. Heinecke, to explore the development of a luxury tourist train.
Phiphat stated that developing the luxury tourist train aligns with the Rail Transport Act B.E. 2569 (2026), already in effect, which allows increased private sector investment and rail service provision in various formats. The Ministry sees the luxury train project as a way to maximize utilization of Thailand’s rail infrastructure while providing sustainable income for the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Furthermore, the project aims to attract high-spending tourists, both domestic and international, and distribute income to local communities along the train routes. The Ministry of Transport plans to integrate efforts with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to develop routes connecting primary and secondary cities, designing unique journeys that offer new experiences for travelers.
Heinecke noted that MINT is interested in and ready to support the luxury tourist train development initiative. The company is preparing a Letter of Intent (LOI) to confirm collaboration, and is willing to help enhance Thai craftsmanship in train carriage assembly, as well as coordinate with European partners to bring technology and know-how to support local production.
This cooperation marks another significant step in forging public-private partnerships. MINT’s expertise in world-class service, with brands like Anantara, will be combined with SRT’s capabilities and the “Siamese Train” refurbishment project, a joint research effort with the Rail Technology Research and Development Agency.
The advancement of luxury tourist trains is a major step in upgrading Thailand’s rail system as a tool for supporting quality tourism, generating new revenue for government and locals, creating jobs and careers, and enhancing the nation’s tourism competitiveness over the long term.
