(d) The lack of ports on the Western seaboard of Siam makes large-scale landing operations against her from the Indian Ocean difficult. (e) The loss of Malaya, entailing loss of command of the Malacca Strait, might theoretically be offset by the cutting of a canal through the Isthmus of Kra. However, this project, though perennially canvassed, could only be a long-term operation on account of the difficulties of the terrain. 5. Economic Value of Siam At present, the main economic value of Siam to the Japanese is as a source of foodstuffs, of which the most important are rice and livestock, although this year's exportable surplus will have been reduced by the recent disastrous floods.