Bangkok: It was clarified that the "50 billion baht" in revenue from the "Land Bridge" project does not represent anyone's net profit. Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, addressed observations regarding revenue from the bunkering business in the Land Bridge project, stating that Thailand has several large oil refineries with a combined production capacity consistently exceeding domestic demand. Therefore, it is already a key exporter of refined oil products in the region. Claiming that Thailand "lacks potential" is thus inconsistent with the industrial reality.

According to Thai News Agency, the business dimension of bunkering is not solely based on having a refinery in the area but on developing Thailand into a "strategic hub" on international shipping routes, using a trading hub model that emphasizes volume and logistics. This approach is used in the global market. The deputy spokesperson emphasized that the estimated 50 billion baht represents 'revenue' from economic activity, not 'net profit' for the government or private sector. Misinterpreting this figure as direct profit could lead to a misunderstanding of the project's essence.

For project implementation, the government has designed the scheme to allow the private sector to invest in energy infrastructure, such as oil storage facilities and service systems, through a public-private partnership (PPP) mechanism. The government will play a role in setting direction and developing strategic structures to reduce budgetary burdens and enhance competitiveness.

The deputy spokesperson added that the "Land Bridge Project" is a strategic infrastructure project that requires consideration of the entire system based on complete data, not just a few figures. The government affirms that it will proceed cautiously, transparently, and open to all suggestions to ensure maximum benefit for the country.