Thailand-Cambodia Border Remains Tense Despite Ceasefire

Businesses shuttered, life subdued in Surin province

A fragile peace has settled over the Thailand-Cambodia border, but normalcy remains elusive for residents and businesses in Surin province as a recent conflict disrupts daily life.

Lingering Impact of Conflict

The Chong Chom border crossing, typically a bustling trade artery, remains sealed even after a ceasefire was declared. On Tuesday, July 29, the familiar sight of an open 7-Eleven was rare, with many convenience stores and shops still shuttered. This continued closure underscores the deep impact of the recent fighting.

Deadly clashes along the disputed frontier have claimed at least 38 lives since the previous Thursday, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee their homes. The silence of artillery fire has not yet translated into a return to normal routines for those caught in the crossfire.

Residents Hesitant to Return

Amidst hastily abandoned market stalls and restaurants in Chong Chom, **Teerawat Saendang**, a 65-year-old grocery store owner, surveyed his business. He had returned briefly from sheltering with relatives in a safer area of neighboring Buriram province, a trip lasting just four days.

“I have been away for a full four days, so I was worried about my belongings — many were left outside. I will go back (to the safe area) around 4 or 5 pm. I don’t dare to stay.”

—Teerawat Saendang, Business Owner

This sentiment reflects the widespread apprehension, as communities grapple with the aftermath of intense fighting. Such border disputes have historically led to significant economic disruption; for example, similar tensions in 2011 saw trade between Thailand and Cambodia fall by an estimated 70% during the peak of the conflict (Reuters, 2011).