Thailand-US trade talks continue as deadline looms, says minister
Speaking while travelling back from Washington from negotiations with the United States, Pichai Chunhavajira said the team emphasised the importance of achieving a sustainable, win-win agreement.
Washington has threatened to impose a 36% levy on imports from Thailand if a reduction cannot be negotiated before July 9, when a 90-day pause capping tariffs at a baseline of 10% for most nations expires.
The United States was Thailand's largest export market last year, accounting for 18.3% of total shipments, or $54.96 billion. Washington has put its deficit with Thailand at $45.6 billion.
'Although the negotiations have not yet reached a final outcome, it means we need to continue working to maximise the benefits for both countries,' Pichai said on X social media.
He said the team would work harder to refine Thailand's proposals to ensure clarity, aiming for an agreement that benefits both parties.
On Monday, Pichai said he hoped the tariffs would not be higher than those imposed on other countries. He earlier said Thailand had submitted a proposal to Washington that aims to address the trade imbalance, and includes measures to enhance market access for U.S. exports and tackle transshipment violations, as well as Thai investment that would create U.S. jobs. He also said earlier that Thailand would import more U.S. natural gas and cut tariffs on imports of corn from the United States. - Reuters
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