TRAT, Thailand – Trat’s economy is showing signs of recovery ahead of the year-end high season, with advance hotel bookings on Koh Chang and Koh Kood reaching 90%, according to the provincial Federation of Thai Industries.
Federation chairman Sutthilak Sunthornrak said tourism and service businesses were expected to drive local income over the next two to three months, with strong demand particularly for high-end hotels and resorts charging 3,000 to 4,000 baht or more per night.
Although operators continue to face pressure from fuel and service costs, the overall situation is beginning to ease. Agricultural prospects, particularly for durian and other economic fruit crops, should become clearer in early December. Water supplies remain sufficient, and previous flooding caused no serious damage to the province.
Bridge seen easing Koh Chang travel bottleneck
Sutthilak also voiced support for the proposed bridge linking the mainland with Koh Chang, a project being studied by the Expressway Authority of Thailand and scheduled for completion in 2035.
Currently, visitors must rely on ferries to reach the island, with long queues during busy periods sometimes causing delays and prompting travellers to reconsider their plans. A bridge would provide another transport option, reduce travel constraints and make the island more accessible.
The preliminary study estimates tolls of 340 baht per trip for cars, or about 680 baht for a return journey, and 90 baht per trip for motorcycles. Sutthilak said the proposed rates were acceptable when compared with current ferry costs, which can total around 500 to 600 baht depending on vehicle and passenger arrangements.
He stressed that the figures remain preliminary and do not represent confirmed future toll rates. The bridge is still several years from completion, and ferry operating costs may change during that period.
Better access could attract medical investment
Beyond tourism, the bridge could encourage investment in supporting infrastructure, particularly private hospitals and healthcare services. Sutthilak said private hospital groups had shown interest in investing in the area.
Improved medical facilities could increase confidence among high-spending visitors and those seeking longer stays, while adding value to the local tourism sector. Better road connections could also link Trat with border checkpoints, supporting future trade and travel.
Sutthilak said the provincial economy looked promising through the end of this year and early 2027, provided there were no major disruptions from international conflicts. However, the cost of living and household finances remained key concerns. Government stimulus measures or a New Year support package could help increase purchasing power and encourage domestic travel.
