Photo courtesy of Thai Newsroom

 

Amid rising tensions, Thai officials are resisting US tariff cut talks linked to potential military bases, a decision urging caution.

 

In a recent development, the Thai government is under pressure regarding a substantial 36 percent US tariff on Thai goods, set to begin on 1st August. Concerns have intensified over a rumoured proposal allowing the US to establish a military base in Thailand as a bargaining chip for reducing these tariffs.

 

Nantiwat Samart, a former secretary to the Foreign Ministry, expressed his disapproval in a Facebook post titled “Oppose Foreign Military Base.” He urged Thailand not to risk entanglement in international conflicts by succumbing to military base demands. “Don’t expect to gain from negotiating the Trump tariff,” he stated, noting a global shift towards divided alliances. He highlighted Indonesia’s similar dilemma, with pressure to exit the BRICS economic group for tariff alleviation.

 

Critics warn against bowing to so-called “extreme Western fanatics” advocating for a shift towards Western democracy as a means for economic relief. Nantiwat referenced Japan and South Korea—Western-style democracies still facing high tariffs—to emphasise the lack of guaranteed benefits.

 

He advised the Thai government to brace for economic impacts, proposing initiatives to shield businesses and reduce living costs, such as lowering fuel and electricity prices.

 

Sutin Wannabovorn, a former foreign correspondent, echoed concerns, mentioning speculation that one condition for reducing tariffs might involve the US using Tab Lamu Naval Base in Phang Nga Province to counterbalance China’s naval influence. Wannabovorn called for government transparency on this matter.

 

Simultaneously, Indonesia remains resolute in its BRICS membership despite additional US tariff threats, as reported by the Jakarta Globe. President Trump’s imposition of a cumulative 20 percent tariff targets BRICS members promoting “anti-American policies,” notably their shift towards local currency usage over the US dollar, known as dedollarisation.

 

Indonesia’s commitment to BRICS aligns with recent entry as its 10th member, accepting potential economic repercussions. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated Jakarta’s readiness to face the consequences, underlining the geopolitical tensions at play.

 

As the August deadline approaches, the focus remains on how these economic and strategic decisions will unfold, with Thailand weighing its options carefully to maintain sovereignty and economic stability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-07-14

 

 

US Denies Naval Base Plans on Thailand's Andaman Coast

 

File photo courtesy of MGR online

 

The United States has dismissed rumours about constructing a naval base along Thailand's Andaman Sea coast. A Thai navy source clarified that the US Seventh Fleet has no intention of establishing such a base in the Tablamu region of Phang Nga, near the existing Thai naval base. This counters widespread public speculation.

 

Despite the buzz, it’s possible the US navy might seek permission to use existing facilities at Phang Nga, much like their arrangements at Sattahip and U-tapao in eastern Thailand.

 

The Thai navy’s Third Naval Area, which oversees the Phang Nga base, commands operations in the strategically significant Indian Ocean area traversed by both mercantile and naval ships.

 

It's not just the US; other allied navies can also request access to Thailand's naval facilities, provided formal permissions are obtained.

 

The talk of an American foothold in Thailand surfaced amidst trade tensions, as Bangkok has a narrow window to negotiate with Washington over an impending 36% tariff on all Thai imports set to start August 1.

 

The speculation about a new base underscores the complex geopolitical dance in the region, where strategic naval positioning is often under scrutiny.

 

While the US remains a key military partner, any move to expand its presence on Thai soil would require careful diplomatic navigation.

 

The potential use of Thai bases by foreign navies reflects Thailand’s balancing act between accommodating allies and maintaining sovereignty.

 

The Thai navy source, speaking anonymously, emphasised the importance of clear communication to avoid misunderstandings.

 

As it stands, the US has made no official request to expand its footprint in Thailand beyond the current cooperative arrangements, leaving local and international observers to watch with interest.

 

No decisions have been made regarding additional naval collaborations, and developments should be closely monitored. The implications of any future agreements will be critical in shaping regional security dynamics.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-07-15

 

 

Smoke / Fire...........................

There is enough of those people here already... We do not need more.

But but but ... look at all the tourists a new American military base would bring (including Chinese spies)... consider the massive boost to the local Thai economy ... what about all the extra "benefits" that the local influential figures would obtain ... and surely, Hun Sen would never attack a country with a solid US military base. (Sarcasm)

Just say no to American arrogance, massive self importance, hubris, ridiculousness and petty threats. Deny America. Deny Trump. Isolate the US and make the world a better place. 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Critics warn against bowing to so-called “extreme Western fanatics” advocating for a shift towards Western democracy as a means for economic relief.

Your choice... stay with the Chinese CCP regime and total authoritarianism, stick with trade in Asia.

3 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

Your choice... stay with the Chinese CCP regime and total authoritarianism, stick with trade in Asia.

Better than western globalist lgbt worshippers.

41 minutes ago, spidermike007 said:

Just say no to American arrogance, massive self importance, hubris, ridiculousness and petty threats. Deny America. Deny Trump. Isolate the US and make the world a better place. 

You are extremely talented at painting broad strokes of provocative opinion toward the people of America as if we are all of a single disposition. Your choice to repeatedly spout off hate solidifies a willing display of ignorance. Perhaps you could do better to inquire versus appear to have all the answers...

tell Trump and his cronies to <deleted> off.

Just now, RethairedJarhead said:

You’re extremely talented at painting broad strokes of provocative opinion toward the people of America as if we are all of a single disposition. Your choice to repeatedly spout off hate solidifies a willing display of ignorance. Perhaps you could do better to inquire versus appear to have all the answers...

All the guy does is sit on here bitching about about Americans and Trump. Weird to me how many people on here who live in thailand yet spend their entire day talking about Americans. We really live in the world's mind rent free.

I think the Thais made this up in order to soften the public perception of failure when they get loaded up first with 36 percent tariffs and then another 20 percent on top of that for applying for BRICS

Surely the country knows how it's done.

 

Tell Trump he hansum man, and make a deal for a 320-meter Trump tower in central Bangkok.

6 hours ago, webfact said:

US Denies Naval Base Plans on Thailand's Andaman Coast

 

File photo courtesy of MGR online

 

The United States has dismissed rumours about constructing a naval base along Thailand's Andaman Sea coast. A Thai navy source clarified that the US Seventh Fleet has no intention of establishing such a base in the Tablamu region of Phang Nga, near the existing Thai naval base. This counters widespread public speculation.

 

Despite the buzz, it’s possible the US navy might seek permission to use existing facilities at Phang Nga, much like their arrangements at Sattahip and U-tapao in eastern Thailand.

 

The Thai navy’s Third Naval Area, which oversees the Phang Nga base, commands operations in the strategically significant Indian Ocean area traversed by both mercantile and naval ships.

 

It's not just the US; other allied navies can also request access to Thailand's naval facilities, provided formal permissions are obtained.

 

The talk of an American foothold in Thailand surfaced amidst trade tensions, as Bangkok has a narrow window to negotiate with Washington over an impending 36% tariff on all Thai imports set to start August 1.

 

The speculation about a new base underscores the complex geopolitical dance in the region, where strategic naval positioning is often under scrutiny.

 

While the US remains a key military partner, any move to expand its presence on Thai soil would require careful diplomatic navigation.

 

The potential use of Thai bases by foreign navies reflects Thailand’s balancing act between accommodating allies and maintaining sovereignty.

 

The Thai navy source, speaking anonymously, emphasised the importance of clear communication to avoid misunderstandings.

 

As it stands, the US has made no official request to expand its footprint in Thailand beyond the current cooperative arrangements, leaving local and international observers to watch with interest.

 

No decisions have been made regarding additional naval collaborations, and developments should be closely monitored. The implications of any future agreements will be critical in shaping regional security dynamics.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-07-15

 

 

This is the government's attempt to appear strong and not seem foolish. The bottom line to all this is simply lowering the tariffs on American products and signing a MOU stating that the government will not sanction companies that relabel Chinese products for sale outside the country.

 

The arrival of naval ships from around the world should be a positive development and cause widespread celebration.  A lot of horny sailors landing near Phuket or Pattaya should make TAT highly aroused.

Another of TACOs standover tactics.Same as he did to Zelenski. So much for the BS "Art of the Deal!"

The last thing Thailand needs is to have the US military operating bases in Thailand.  

Funny how this government thinks highly of itself. Grandiose plans to mitigate tariff only to be told by USA  there’s no such plan. Losing face the ultimate poison for a Thai. 

2 hours ago, John Drake said:

I think the Thais made this up in order to soften the public perception of failure when they get loaded up first with 36 percent tariffs and then another 20 percent on top of that for applying for BRICS

Right.Talking BS.They realize the truth now and get smacked in the face.

Instead of offering a new military base, why dont Thailand flip the coin and up the tariff for US military already using Sattahip and U -tapau!!  

11 minutes ago, LennyW said:

Instead of offering a new military base, why dont Thailand flip the coin and up the tariff for US military already using Sattahip and U -tapau!!  

Makes sense.

The entire ASEAN alliance should definitely join the BRICS association and focus more on regional Asian trade and consider a free trade agreement with the EU and the other European states in order to get rid of this scourge of Trump!

53 minutes ago, AustinRacing said:

Funny how this government thinks highly of itself. Grandiose plans to mitigate tariff only to be told by USA  there’s no such plan. Losing face the ultimate poison for a Thai. 

Right.And they named Trump as prime minister and after former president.Just shove how much they know and care about nobody then themselves.

1 hour ago, Hanuman2547 said:

The last thing Thailand needs is to have the US military operating bases in Thailand.  

Agree keep them out especially while a madman in charge.

Never ever thought I would say this but Thailand property better to align with countries that show respect. 

 

 

 

4 hours ago, spidermike007 said:

Just say no to American arrogance, massive self importance, hubris, ridiculousness and petty threats. Deny America. Deny Trump. Isolate the US and make the world a better place. 

Yeah, much better to cuddle up to China.

The Art of the Deal with Trump is no Deal.

 

1 minute ago, thongplay said:

Yeah, much better to cuddle up to China.

In the past I've always despised the Chinese government and the CCP, however Trump is pushing many nations towards them and there's no question that he is a wet dream for Xi. 

 

As an American who despises Trump, I have a weird sort of affection for China and Chinese products at the moment. I think a large portion of the planet feels the same way. 

1 hour ago, Hanuman2547 said:

The last thing Thailand needs is to have the US military operating bases in Thailand.  

Again ...

Trump's threats to Canada a old loyal friend show the man for the devious piece of sh*t that he is.

Thailand stay away from this demented backstabbing coward.

4 hours ago, spidermike007 said:

Just say no to American arrogance, massive self importance, hubris, ridiculousness and petty threats. Deny America. Deny Trump. Isolate the US and make the world a better place. 

 

Odd comment

 

There are other threads where America and Trump are getting castigated for not doing enough for Ukraine.

 

Not forgetting that Taiwan is still Taiwan and not China, due to America.

 

And should a large unpleasantness kick off, guess who the World will be looking for to take the lead.

 

Careful what you wish for, springs to mind.

 

Best not to mention the Americans, who were full of their self importance and arrogant to a fault, under the Obama Administration.

You have to ask, does America need yet another overseas military base? Does Thailand understand the military consequences of hosting a possibly nuclear naval ship?

 

Why do Russia and China need so many military bases near America?

(say it while dripping with sarcasm)