File photo for reference only

 

The Thai Trade Centre in Miami has revealed that former US President Donald Trump is considering imposing tariffs on imported furniture. Thai furniture, a major player in the US market, ranks among the top ten sources, raising concerns in Thailand.

 

The centre, part of Thailand's Ministry of Commerce, reported Trump's announcement via Truth Social, indicating that the US is examining the necessity and exact rates for these potential tariffs. A 50-day countdown, starting on 22 August, has been set for a final decision.

 

This isn't the first time Trump has targeted such imports. On 1 March, he signed an executive order citing national security threats from timber imports, including raw wood and wood-based products, prompting an investigation by the Department of Commerce.

 

Analysts believe the tariffs will invoke Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which permits trade restrictions based on national security. This same provision was previously used to impose a 50% tariff on steel and aluminium. Furniture tariffs could follow a similar or even more severe structure.

 

Officially, Trump's 50-day deadline might be more about politics than procedure. Technically, the Commerce Department has 270 days to conclude its investigation, followed by a 90-day period for presidential action. This discrepancy suggests that the deadline is politically motivated.

 

Furniture is a key Thai export to the US, including items like general furniture, lamps, and chairs. The Thai Trade Centre warns exporters to keep a close watch on the investigation, particularly regarding:

 

• Product Scope: Will tariffs apply to all furniture types or be categorised by material—such as wood, metal, or upholstered—and use?
• Tariff Structure: Will all importing countries be affected equally, or will specific nations be targeted?
• Exemptions and Calculations: Will new tariffs replace existing import duties, or add to them?

 

The Thai Trade Centre promises to closely monitor developments and provide a detailed report on the US furniture market. With Thai furniture exports valued significantly in the global market, even a modest tariff increase could impact its competitive edge.

 

With uncertainty in the air, Thai exporters are encouraged to prepare for various scenarios. Current discussions suggest that if tariffs are imposed, they could drastically alter trade dynamics, potentially affecting pricing and supply chains.

 

As the countdown continues towards mid-October, all eyes remain on what Trump's final decision will be. Whatever the outcome, it will undoubtedly shape future trade relations and strategic planning for Thai furniture exporters. The financial implications for Thailand's economy could be substantial, given the sector's significant value, which translates into billions of Thai Baht annually.

 

In anticipation of the decision, businesses are advised to remain agile, planning strategically for both immediate and long-term shifts in the market landscape. With potential modifications to trade policies looming, staying informed and adaptable will be crucial for maintaining a robust presence in the highly competitive US market.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-09-01

 

On the other hand when you see how they cheat in prices and/or quality on garden furniture in stores in Hua Hin, guess some of these merchants had it comming. 

They get smacked on the butt again.As deserved.

"Furniture" is a national security issue/emergency for the U.S.?

 

OK.

 

Furniture manufacturing returning to NC? All the facilities and "artists" are long gone.

 

 

 

Does this include a commode ?

Moot point. Trump's tarrifs have been declared illegal. Most to expire next month with probable rebates of tarrifs already paid. 

National Security? <deleted> joke. Say what it really is, a money grab from US citizens to pay for the tax cuts for Trump's billionaire paymasters.