Thai/US Talks On Export Tariffs

[Jai Dee]

Thailand is negotiating with the US on renewal of GSP privileges to Thai exports

Caretaker Commerce Minister Somkid Jatusripitak (สมคิด จาตุศรีพิทักษ์) has begun negotiating with the United States on the extension of Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) benefits for Thai products.

Mr. Somkid, who is on a visit to the US, said talks with US Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez and US Trade Representative Susan C. Schwab on the GSP tariffs tended to yield good results.

Preferential tariff treatment worth US$3.6 billion provided under GSP for Thai exports such as gems and jewelry will expire at the end of this year.

Mr. Somkid said he is also looking to strengthen bilateral Thai-US ties in trade, investment, education and technology.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 12 July 2006