Rating: 4.2/5 (5 votes)

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 07.00 - 21.00

 

Temporarily Permitted Area Thai-Cambodia Ban Laem Permanent Border Crossing in Chanthaburi Province is one of the key strategic points for economic and social activities between Thailand and Cambodia. It is located in Moo 4, Thepnimit Subdistrict, Pong Nam Ron District, with Khlong Dan serving as the natural boundary, directly opposite Ban Tuong, Krong Reang District, Preah Sihanouk Province, Cambodia. Originally, this site functioned as a trade relaxation point before being officially opened as a permanent border crossing in 2003, facilitating official cross-border trade and movement between the two countries.

 

The history of Ban Laem Border Crossing reflects Thailand’s efforts to develop border trade and support organized labor mobility. The site initially opened as a trade relaxation point in 1997, allowing Thai and Cambodian citizens to cross freely for trade and transit. It was later upgraded to a permanent border crossing, serving as a formal gateway for international trade and regulated labor movement.

 

The crossing operates daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Travelers must carry valid identification, such as a passport or a border pass. Security and document checks are strictly managed under the supervision of the Chanthaburi Customs Office and the Chanthaburi Immigration Office. The customs office is located in Thepnimit Subdistrict, approximately 60 kilometers from the Chanthaburi Customs headquarters, providing inspection services for goods and documentation to facilitate traders and visitors. The immigration checkpoint is equipped with modern facilities to handle cross-border traffic efficiently and ensure proper document verification.

 

Ban Laem Border Crossing also hosts the largest Thailand–Cambodia border trade market in Chanthaburi. This free trade market offers a wide variety of products, including consumer goods, agricultural produce from Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and China, fresh fruits and vegetables in season, processed foods, jewelry, clothing, and daily necessities. The market operates bilingually in Thai and Khmer, making transactions smooth and creating a lively cross-border trading environment. Nearby Cambodian territory features casinos, adding to the appeal for tourists visiting the area.

 

The border crossing has also played a role in managing migrant labor. Initially, Cambodian workers could enter Chanthaburi for seven days, but the system evolved into the “Pong Nam Ron Model,” requiring workers to report every 90 days to regulate labor movement and maintain workforce stability in the area. This approach demonstrates strategic flexibility in using Ban Laem as a tool for economic and social management.

 

Travelers can reach Ban Laem by private vehicle or public transportation. From Bangkok, one can travel along Sukhumvit Road to Chanthaburi, turn onto Highway 317 toward Sa Kaeo Province, continue on Highway 3210 (Phang Ngon–Chang Wang route), then turn onto Highway 3193, and finally enter Rural Road 4033 leading directly to the border crossing. Public transportation includes vans from Chanthaburi and Pattaya to Ban Laem, operating from early morning until evening, providing easy access for visitors to the market or to cross into Cambodia.

 

Due to its economic activities, cross-border trade, and social role, Ban Laem Permanent Border Crossing is a key hub reflecting the close relationship between Thailand and Cambodia. It supports retail trade, facilitates cross-border movement, and demonstrates effective border management that strengthens the border economy and regional cooperation in Southeast Asia.

 

For tourists and those interested in border trade, Ban Laem offers not only a safe and convenient crossing but also a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Thai–Cambodian border. The market showcases diverse products, from fresh agricultural goods and processed items to imported products, making it an attractive destination for experiencing culture, commerce, and cross-border travel.