Thailand Cracks Down on Chinese Trucks Violating Approved Routes
Thai authorities are cracking down on Chinese trucks illegally diverting from approved trade routes to smuggle fruit into southern Thailand, with five container vehicles seized near Lang Suan in Chumphon province. Violators face immediate i
The Department of Land Transport, coordinating with Chumphon-Prachuap Highway Police, has established checkpoints to intercept Chinese trucks operating outside permitted routes, warning that further violations will trigger immediate seizure, mandatory rerouting to approved paths, and strict legal action.
On July 14, 2025, Department Director Saropong Paithoonyapong disclosed enforcement efforts against Chinese cross-border cargo vehicles illegally deviating from GMS (Greater Mekong Subregion) transport agreements to smuggle fruit into southern Thailand. The department is implementing countermeasures to prevent repeat offenses and safeguard Thai transport operators.
On July 13, Chumphon Transport Office, collaborating with police from Lang Suan Station, district officials, customs, commerce department, and immigration checkpoints, conducted inspections of cargo trucks and sales permits. They also publicized international freight regulations under the GMS cross-border transport agreement signed by Cambodia, Laos, China, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam at Lert Prom Market, Morkot Market, and nearby areas in Lang Suan District, Chumphon.
This proactive operation targets Chinese trucks attempting to deviate from authorized routes into southern regions. Following coordinated efforts between Chumphon Transport Office and highway police from both provinces, inspectors discovered five Chinese container trucks parked behind Morkot Market with no drivers present. Vehicle registration checks revealed these trucks were registered for international freight transport, had entered Thailand via Chiang Khong Customs in Chiang Rai between June 29 and July 1, with declared destinations in Bangkok and Chanthaburi. Officials seized the vehicles to investigate buyers, sellers, and parties involved in unauthorized cargo pickups for legal action.
The Department of Land Transport warns that any Chinese trucks operating outside approved routes will face immediate interception and document inspection. Violators will be fined and forced to return immediately to one of nine authorized GMS routes, with no permission to proceed to off-route destinations. The department has also notified foreign transport operators through diplomatic channels operating in Thailand who have violated these routes, urging strict driver supervision. Coordinating with highway police and relevant agencies, authorities will continue surveillance and interdiction; further violations will prompt reconsideration of stricter measures.
