SA KAEO, Thailand – The once-bustling Rong Kluea Market in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo Province, near the Thai-Cambodian border, remained eerily quiet on June 14 as Cambodian vendors hesitated to cross the border to open their stalls amid ongoing uncertainty along the frontier.
At the Ban Khlong Luek permanent border checkpoint, early morning rain added to the subdued atmosphere, leaving the area damp and largely deserted. Only a handful of Thai citizens were seen waiting to cross into Poipet, while Cambodian nationals traveling from Bangkok waited to return home, hoping for smoother conditions in the coming days.
Cambodian traders, who usually lease stalls inside the market, were noticeably absent. Many cited concerns about the unpredictable border situation and uncertainty over customer turnout. These fears have been amplified by circulating rumors of ongoing bilateral meetings, which some believe could impact short-term cross-border movement.
Despite the unease, Thai border officials confirmed that the checkpoint opened as usual at 8:00 AM, with no changes to standard operating hours.
Inside Rong Kluea Market, most shops—especially those operated by Cambodian merchants—remained closed. The overall atmosphere was markedly subdued, with foot traffic at a minimum and large sections of the market appearing nearly deserted.
Mr. Hong, a Cambodian national traveling from Bangkok to visit family in Banteay Meanchey, said he believes both sides will eventually find common ground, even if it takes time.
“We’ve always lived like brothers and sisters across this border,” he said, expressing hope for continued cooperation and lasting peace in the region, which shares deep historical and social ties.
