Hat Lek Checkpoint Open, But Cambodian Side Remains Closed

Bangkok: Hat Lek checkpoint in Trat province is now open, but the Cambodian side remains closed, resulting in no freight vehicles waiting to cross the border. Business operators are in a state of anticipation, awaiting further clarity. According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere at the Thai-Cambodian border, specifically at the permanent border crossing at Ban Hat Lek, Tambon Hat Lek, Amphoe Khlong Yai, Trat Province, has been notably quiet. Despite the Thai side announcing the reopening of the border crossing to allow goods vehicles to enter and exit, the Cambodian side has yet to reciprocate. The situation is compounded by heavy rain, adding to the subdued atmosphere. Thai officials mentioned that while the border crossing is operational for goods vehicles, the lack of coordination between Thai and Cambodian business operators is evident, as no vehicles are currently waiting to cross. The Cambodian border crossing at Ban Cham Yim, Koh Kong Province, remains closed, with only Cambodian workers gradually returning to their side. Thai business operators planning to send goods to Cambodia are in a holding pattern, awaiting confirmation and clarity regarding the opening of the Cambodian border. Additionally, the trading of small goods along the Thai-Cambodian border has seen no activity, with no Cambodians crossing over to purchase goods from the Thai side.