PTT eyes Burma’s planned deep-sea port at Tavoy for long term expansion of petrochemical and refining businesses

25-Nov-10

PTT is eyeing the deep-sea port planned for Tavoy on Burma's southern coast as an opportunity for expansion of its petrochemical and refining businesses in the long term, replacing the current facility on the Southern Seaboard. Since the Thai major’s plans for domestic expansion of the businesses has met with legal hurdles and resistance from the local community, PTT plans to seek a new facility for investment expansion. The deep-sea port in Tavoy (known as Dawei) seems like a possible long term option which could take at least 10 years to develop. Tavoy offers the advantage of its relative proximity to Thailand, is home to few Thai residents, and is suitable for both deep-sea development and an industrial estate. Establishment of the Asean Economics Community in 2015 will also support plant relocation in the region. However, until the Burmese government has a clear policy of welcoming foreign investment without interference, investment in this region would not be possible. However, the Tavoy plan is not included in PTT's five-year investment plan at a budget of more than Bt1 trillion.