Bangkok: The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has celebrated its 74th anniversary, announcing a record-breaking profit of 7.648 billion baht. The organization aims to manage port areas efficiently using the '3 Smart' concept, advancing infrastructure alongside urban development, technology, and improving people's quality of life, with a focus on sustainability.
According to Thai News Agency, Mrs. Manoporn Charoensri, Deputy Minister of Transport, presided over the anniversary ceremony. The event included a Buddhist ceremony and the presentation of 1,834,482 baht for charitable activities to various organizations, including the Thai Red Cross Society and Somdej Phra Yupparat Chiang Khong Hospital in Chiang Rai Province. Awards were also given to employees to acknowledge their contributions and boost morale.
Mrs. Manop highlighted that over the past 74 years, the PAT has developed five ports under its supervision to handle increasing cargo volumes. The PAT has invested in modernizing infrastructure, technology, and management systems in line with the 'Transportation for Opportunity for Thailand' policy, which aims to position Thailand as a regional transportation hub. The PAT also focuses on sustainable coexistence with communities near the ports, following the ESG approach, reinforcing its pivotal role in national and regional economic growth.
Mr. Kriangkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, Director of PAT, shared that the anniversary theme, 'PORTrait of the future: Sailing to a Greener Tomorrow,' reflects the vision of the PAT as a world-class port that balances urban society, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The '3 Smart' principles include Smart Port, Smart Commercial, and Smart Community, aiming to enhance service levels, operational efficiency, and community well-being.
In the fiscal year 2024, PAT reported the highest revenue of 17,224 million baht, marking a three-year streak of record profits. The net profits for fiscal years 2022, 2023, and 2024 were 6,276 million baht, 6,666 million baht, and 7,648 million baht, respectively. In the first half of fiscal year 2025, the PAT recorded a net profit of 3,500 million baht, with a 1.95% increase in the number of ships docking and a 5.10% rise in goods throughput.
Ranong Port saw significant growth in imports and exports, particularly in animal feed corn and consumer goods, due to the logistics industry's expansion linked to Myanmar. The first half of fiscal year 2025 showed a 49% increase in ships docking and a 371% rise in container throughput. The live animal export project at Chiang Saen Commercial Port also saw substantial growth, promoting local farming occupations.
The PAT continues to advance several projects, including the Laem Chabang Port Development Project Phase 3, which is progressing in various stages of construction and planning. The dry port development project is also underway, with Khon Kaen Province as the pilot area, and studies are being conducted for potential expansions in Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, and other regions.
The PAT is committed to social responsibility, supporting youth education and skills development, community engagement, and environmental initiatives. The organization aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions through digitalization and decarbonization strategies, while continually improving service standards and adapting to technological advancements.