108. A key issue on maritime connectivity in IMT-GT is whether the focus on port
development should be on external connectivity i.e., of IMT-GT with international markets.
Intra-IMT-GT maritime trade is quite small and much of the bilateral maritime trade is being
handled by non-conventional vessels and is often integrated within ‘localised’ cross-border
trading arrangements. This notwithstanding, improved maritime connectivity is needed
through the (i) development of RoRo services among Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand
across the Strait of Melaka; (ii) improvement of container operations on the north and east
coast of Sumatera; and, (iii) the development of Thailand’s Andaman Sea Ports particularly
in Phuket on account of passenger and cruise facilities.