Economy Thai PM Confident in US Tariff Talks Ahead of Trump's Deadline

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed optimism on Tuesday regarding the ongoing negotiations with the United States over impending tariff hikes, assuring that an agreement would be reached before President Donald Trump's extended deadline.

 

Negotiations were temporarily halted after Thai officials in the US advised a review of specific issues before finalising a deal. This led Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira to cancel a scheduled trip to Washington on April 23.

 

Despite the setback, Paetongtarn remains confident that both nations can resolve the details before the new deadline. Originally, a 36% tariff on Thai goods was slated to commence on April 9. The Prime Minister downplayed concerns surrounding potential "secret deals" with the US, which critics fear could later be used against her administration. She stressed that certain details must remain confidential or disclosed at appropriate times.

 

Last year, Thailand's trade surplus with the US reached approximately US$45.6 billion, highlighting the significance of these negotiations on both economies.

 

In another development, the Bank of Thailand's northern office reported that, in the first quarter, the economic situation mirrored trends seen across the country. While the agricultural and tourism sectors are projected to grow in the second quarter, industry and private investments may experience stagnation due to ongoing global trade and tariff concerns.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-07

 

 

[ozz1]

Maybe she can give don a happy ending that might help