On October 19, 2023, a milestone was achieved as Mr. Chayathan Phromsorn, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, appointed Mr. Montri Dechasakulsom, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, to oversee the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Rail Technology Research and Development Agency (RTRDA) and Japan Freight Railway Company (JR Freight). This MOU represents a commitment to advancing rail technology and supporting Thailand's railway industry. The signing ceremony took place at the Royal Princess Larn Luang Hotel in Bangkok, with Mr. TASAKA Takuro, Minister, Embassy of Japan, co-chairing the event. The MOU was signed by Mr. Santi Charoenpornpattana, President of RTRDA, and Mr. KOGURE Kazuhisa, Director and Executive Officer, Railway Logistics Headquarters, JR Freight. The key areas of collaboration encompass rail technology research, technology transfer, and workforce development for the rail industry.

Mr. Santi Charoenpornpattana, President of RTRDA, stressed the agency's mission to promote rail transport as the primary mode of transportation in Thailand and integrate other modes with the rail network. RTRDA also plays a pivotal role in formulating and implementing strategies that cater to Thailand's specific needs. This collaboration with JR Freight encompasses:
It serves as the starting point for developing essential elements of Thailand's rail ecosystem, including research and development of rail technology, standard development, testing systems, and creating a skilled workforce tailored to Thailand's rail industry needs.

Mr. Santi Charoenpornpattana, President of RTRDA, stressed the agency's mission to promote rail transport as the primary mode of transportation in Thailand and integrate other modes with the rail network. RTRDA also plays a pivotal role in formulating and implementing strategies that cater to Thailand's specific needs. This collaboration with JR Freight encompasses:

1. Research and development, along with technology transfer, to boost the economy and establish Thailand as a hub for rail technology and innovation.

2. Workforce development through curriculum development and training in partnership with public and private sectors, ensuring that rail personnel possess the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to evolving technology and standards.

3. Advancement of the Thai rail industry by promoting local manufacturing of railway components (Local Content), enhancing competitiveness, and positioning Thailand as a key player in the ASEAN Economic Community. This aligns with the Ministry of Transport's goals and contributes to Thailand's rail network's stable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly future.

Mr. Kogure Kazuhisa, Director and Executive Officer, Railway Logistics Headquarters, JR Freight, has emphasized the importance of overseas business development as a central strategy in the company's medium-term management plan and long-term vision. Notably, in 2017, a representative office was established in Bangkok. Furthermore, the company has been dedicated to supporting the Ministry of Transport and the State Railway of Thailand in conducting surveys related to rail freight transport in Thailand since 2015, with the support of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation, and Tourism in Japan. Mr. Kogure has underscored that the signing of the memorandum of understanding aligns with the company's brand message, "Challenge and Change," which strongly focuses on tangible operations. This development is considered a significant step forward in advancing the company's foreign business ventures and plays a vital role in contributing to efforts to achieve carbon neutrality in Thailand.

This Memorandum of Understanding for Collaboration in Advancing Rail Technology and Supporting the Railway Industry is a significant step towards leveraging modern technology to upgrade the rail industry, meet the needs of the country's rail network development, enhance competitiveness, and ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly future for Thailand's rail network, all while strengthening the enduring partnership between Thailand and Japan.