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56 Pages · Sep 2026

Assessing the Socio-Economic and Political Impact of Cross-Border Trade Disruptions: A Study of the Thailand-Cambodia Border Regions

Tatporn Tanawarit, Ph.D.; Pana Janviroj; Darmp Sukontasap, Ph.D.

Tatporn Tanawarit, Ph.D.; Pana Janviroj;
Darmp Sukontasap, Ph.D.

Executive Summary

This study examines local perceptions on the proposed reopening of Thailand–Cambodia land border crossings, focusing on public support, economic impacts, security concerns, confidence in peaceful coexistence, and preparedness for the reopening. The findings indicate that economic necessity creates a strong underlying rationale for reopening, but security perceptions, confidence, and the information environment remain critical constraints. Importantly, local communities generally distinguish between reopening being necessary and being urgent: they recognize the economic and practical importance of restoring cross-border connectivity, but do not necessarily support immediate or unconditional reopening.

OVERALL FINDINGS

A survey by the Institute for Strategic Policy (ISP) reveals a clear but conditional economic rationale for reopening the Thailand–Cambodia border crossings.

More than three in five local respondents support reopening, and residents recognize that restoring cross-border connectivity is necessary.

However, support for reopening does not translate into a strong sense of urgency. Economic necessity is therefore not sufficient on its own to generate broad public confidence in immediate reopening.

Tatporn Tanawarit, Ph.D.; Pana Janviroj; Darmp Sukontasap, Ph.D.

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