Thailand Joins ASEAN in Trade Talks Pushback Against US Tariffs

[snoop1130]

Picture of PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra courtesy of Thai News

 

Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is bolstering ASEAN's unified stance against proposed US tariff hikes, advocating for a collective approach in negotiations with the Trump administration. Following her meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Government House on April 6, Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of ASEAN's unified voice in global trade discussions.

 

Highlighting ASEAN's economic might, representing a collective population of 670 million, Paetongtarn stressed that a regional consensus is key to productive talks with the US. "We have a set of decent proposals to present to the US during the talks. It could be a win-win situation for both sides," she stated.

 

This meeting is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, building on previous engagements between the leaders. In preparation for the upcoming ASEAN meeting focused on the US tariff issue, Thailand has pledged full support for the bloc's unified approach. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira is scheduled to lead a Thai delegation to Washington next week, following US President Donald Trump's announcement of tariff changes, including a maintained 10% levy.

 

Thailand, with a significant US$45.6 billion trade surplus with the US, ranks as America's 11th largest trade partner. The tariff discussions come amid broader regional cooperation plans, including the proposed Golok River bridge linking Thailand and Malaysia, aimed at completion by 2027.

 

 

 

Furthering regional ties, Paetongtarn highlighted initiatives to strengthen connections between rubber industries in Malaysia and Thailand, benefiting farmers and small businesses across borders.

 

On the complex issue of peace in Thailand's southern border provinces, Paetongtarn reiterated support for new negotiation teams, with Malaysia continuing its mediator role in the conflict. This aligns with broader regional stability efforts, as evidenced by discreet diplomatic engagements.

 

In a notable development, former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra hosted Anwar at the Rosewood Bangkok Hotel for a private dinner, which reportedly involved discussions with Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing on reviving ASEAN's five-point consensus to address Myanmar’s political crisis post-coup.

 

In summary, Thailand's engagement through ASEAN exemplifies a strategic effort to navigate the challenging trade landscape with the US, while also fostering regional cooperation and addressing mutual geopolitical concerns, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-04-18

 

 

[Pouatchee]

so daddy warmed up the Malaysian PM and in comes Patongtarn... of course she has to maintain the appearance that won her the  award for best young leader given not too long ago.  Woe me... if only the rest of the world really knew that she is actually a puppet in the guise of a leader

[ikke1959]

When is she going to meet Trump as she announced last week to talk about the import taxes on Thai products??? Probably only making herself important to become world leader of the year but saying a lot and doing nothing