Commerce Ministry Monitors EU Protests Amid Export Risk Concerns

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthathamphorn revealed she has instructed the Ministry of Commerce to closely monitor protests and unrest across Europe. The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) and the Trade Promotion Department are urgently assessing risks that could affect Thai trade and exports, while continuously providing information and guidance to entrepreneurs. The focus is on forward-looking risk assessment and preparing response plans aligned with potential threats, enabling businesses to plan and adapt promptly.

The latest situation report identifies protests in six countries: France, Italy, Portugal, Albania, Spain, and Belgium. Demands vary, covering cost of living, wages, and housing issues, with some areas reporting clashes and safety incidents. Labor union movements that could disrupt transport services and economic activity must also be watched. The ministry stresses area-by-area assessment to pinpoint risks to Thai trade and transport.

Regarding impact on Thai exports, prolonged or widening unrest could affect consumer purchasing power, demand for certain product groups, and logistics, potentially increasing delivery times and business costs. This is especially true if protests or strikes disrupt air, land transport, and distribution in affected areas. Actual impact depends on severity and locations affected. The Commerce Ministry will closely track data from trade offices and stakeholders, while evaluating risk management options to help entrepreneurs maintain trade continuity and reduce uncertainty.

Nevertheless, in January–August 2026, trade between Thailand and the EU totaled $34,692.72 million, expanding 17.13% year-on-year. Thai exports reached $21,062.04 million, up 21.89%, while imports stood at $13,630.68 million, up 10.45%, yielding a trade surplus of $7,431.36 million. This underscores the EU market's importance, requiring the ministry to monitor risks closely while preserving trade opportunities and Thai exporters' competitiveness.

The ministry urges exporters to monitor conditions in partner countries, verify shipping status and delivery schedules directly with partners and service providers. If transport routes face disruption, they should negotiate revised delivery terms and prepare contingency plans for perishable or time-sensitive goods. Exporters may also consider diversifying risk to other markets, temporarily reducing reliance on Europe, and accelerating entry into ASEAN, South Asia, or Middle East markets. Additionally, enhancing cargo insurance coverage to include war risks is recommended.