Economy Thailand and US to Commence Talks on Trade Tariffs, Strengthening Economic Ties

[snoop1130]

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan at Jetro Bangkok's 70th-anniversary event | Photo via Commerce Ministry

 

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has announced the initiation of technical-level discussions between Thailand and the United States, focusing on the US tariff regime. This development comes as both nations prepare for negotiations following the Thai Cabinet's approval of a negotiation framework on June 10.

 

The United States expressed its willingness to engage in these talks on June 7, a move welcomed by Thailand, which had faced criticism for its previously slow response to the tariff threat. Emphasizing a proactive approach, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra established a US trade policy working group on January 6, chaired by Commerce Permanent Secretary Vuttikrai Leewiraphan.

 

Pichai, appointed as the Chief Liaison to US Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer, has been instrumental in strengthening ties, initiating contact with US officials late last year. His efforts gained momentum as he led a delegation to Washington DC from February 4 to 8, holding discussions with high-level US officials, including Congress members, ministers, and private sector representatives.

 

A formal dialogue took shape as Pichai requested meetings with Greer and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in March. Moreover, he directed officials, led by Vuttikrai and Department of Trade Negotiations Director-General Chotima Iemsawasdikul, to accelerate discussions and develop policy proposals enhancing the Thailand-US economic partnership.

 

These proposals, signed by Pichai, were delivered to the USTR on May 8, receiving a positive reception from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. In recent months, Pichai met with Greer twice, first at the 2025 APEC Trade Ministers' meeting in Jeju, South Korea, and then at the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting in Paris, further emphasizing Thailand's readiness to negotiate trade tariffs.

 

These meetings highlighted Thailand's commitment to fostering an economic partnership, with Greer showing appreciation for the consistent policy proposals and expressing confidence in arranging a formal meeting soon. This recent confirmation of the US's desire to negotiate marks a significant step forward in solidifying the economic relationship between the two countries.

 

As both sides prepare for these crucial discussions, the focus remains on creating a mutually beneficial trade environment that supports the economic growth and strategic interests of both Thailand and the United States.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-16

 

 

[ronnie50]

Gotta wonder just how 'firm' a deal that Grippen Fighter announcement from Thailand really is... (with Sweden)

[John Drake]

TACO incoming.

[DezLez]

2 minutes ago, John Drake said:

TACO incoming.

Just before landing it will reverse course again and again etc.