The move comes after the Transport Ministry proposed a 120-billion-baht (US$ 3.7-billion) project over seven years to expand the busy Chon Buri port. The port has undergone two development phases, and Transport Minister Jarupong Ruangsuwan is calling for a third phase, advised by Team Group. The proposed expansion will increase the port's annual cargo-handling capacity to 18.8 million 20-foot equivalent units, sufficient for over the next two decades, while at present the port handles 55% of Thailand's exports and imports. The port expansion is part of the projects aimed at connecting the Eastern Seaboard to a planned deep-sea port and industrial estate in Dawei, Myanmar. The expansion affects more than 1,000 households in Bang Lamung district, said local resident Chokthana Uppatham.