PHANG NGA, Thailand – Residents of Tab Lamu in Phang Nga province have voiced strong opposition to rumors that the United States is seeking to establish a military presence at the Thai navy base in the area. Locals fear the move would make their community a target for enemy attacks and disrupt key economic sectors, including fishing and tourism.
The controversy stems from widely circulated rumors suggesting that the U.S. has requested use of the Royal Thai Navy’s base at Tab Lamu as part of negotiations tied to the so-called “Trump Tariffs.” The location is seen as strategically important in the Indo-Pacific region, but residents are increasingly alarmed by what they see as a threat to their livelihoods and safety.
On July 17, local reporters visited the Tab Lamu pier, which is currently hosting several tourism boats undergoing maintenance during the low season. The area is typically bustling with vessels transporting visitors to the famed Similan and Surin Islands, as well as local fishing fleets.
Ms. Ratsuda Bamrungsuk, a member of the Phang Nga Provincial Administrative Organization Council representing Thai Mueang District, stated that many community members are firmly against the idea of allowing the U.S. to establish a base in exchange for tariff reductions. She warned that it could severely impact locals who have lived and worked in the area since before the naval base existed — particularly those in the fishing and tourism sectors. She also expressed concern that such a base could make the region a potential target in geopolitical conflicts involving the U.S.
Ms. Chalermsri Paeyai, Mayor of Lam Kaen Subdistrict, added that the rumor has already sparked unrest among locals. She emphasized that the Tab Lamu canal is currently used for both small-scale and commercial fishing, as well as being a crucial tourism hub for trips to the Similan and Surin Islands. Any military installation by a foreign power could disrupt these industries and the peaceful way of life in the area, she warned.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the Thai government or the Royal Thai Navy regarding the rumors. However, the growing opposition from the public has prompted many local leaders to call for transparency and immediate clarification to prevent further social division.
