Photo via Talk News Online

 

A political storm brews as MPs from the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) accuse the Thai government of secretly planning a deal with the United States, exchanging the use of a naval base for tariff reductions. This accusation comes amidst heightened scrutiny over Thailand’s trade negotiations with the US.

 

Yesterday at 10am, Phang Nga MP Chakaj Phatthanakitwibun spearheaded a press conference where he criticised the government's handling of trade under previous US policies, particularly those which resulted in Thai exports facing steep tariffs of up to 36%. This, he argued, has been detrimental to the Thai economy.

 

Rumours suggest that the next move might involve granting the US access to the Thap Lamu Naval Base in Songkhla province in return for slashed tariffs. Chakaj voiced strong opposition, declaring, "Trading our national security for commercial gains breaches core principles and threatens local economies and tourism."

 

He demanded transparency from the government, insisting such negotiations should not be shrouded in secrecy. Emphasising the impact on locals, Chakaj affirmed that he and his PPRP colleagues staunchly oppose the purported deal.

 

In parallel developments, Commerce Minister Jatuporn Burispat disclosed plans to cut import tariffs on several US goods to 0%. Preparing for upcoming discussions, further strategies are being aligned, with relevant agencies tasked with assessing product impacts and remedies.

 

Deputy Commerce Minister Chantawit Tanthasit has been directed to collaborate with US Ambassador Robert Frank Godec. They aim to present detailed import-export data and policy scenarios to strengthen Thailand's negotiating stance.

 

Despite these preparations, no official statement has yet addressed the contentious rumoured plan involving the Thap Lamu Naval Base.

 

While the government focuses on trade discussions, the alleged agreement has stirred national debate, raising questions about the balance between economic opportunity and national security. The public now waits for clarity and official responses amid growing concerns.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

 

 

How many Chinese "advisers" are going to arrive with the submarines? As for the US, I cannot imagine that there is any place in Thailand where they want to extend their presence. There is nothing in Thailand the US cannot get elsewhere. And why would they ever want to bottle up any naval assets in the Gulf of Thailand?