Thai Exports Surge 10% on FTA Benefits as SMEs Seek Trade Advantages
Thai exports utilizing free trade agreements surged 10 percent year-on-year in April, reaching $31.77 billion, as the government pushes SMEs to capitalize on trade deals amid rising geopolitical tensions.
The Department of Foreign Trade reported that export values utilizing FTA benefits in April 2025 totaled $31.77 billion, up 10.19 percent year-on-year, with an 81.41 percent utilization rate of eligible goods. The leading agreements by export value were the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) at $10.62 billion, the ASEAN-China FTA (ACFTA) at $8.51 billion with a 93.03 percent utilization rate, and the ASEAN-India FTA (AIFTA) at $5.01 billion.
Top export categories leveraging FTA benefits included vehicles for freight transport, fresh durian, jewelry made from precious metals, and synthetic rubber blended with natural rubber. Agricultural products accounted for 24.08 percent of total FTA-utilized exports at $7.65 billion, with fresh durian, processed chicken, and tropical fruits leading the way. Industrial products dominated at 75.92 percent of total FTA utilization worth $24.12 billion.
Department Director Arada Fuengtong emphasized that global trade faces structural shifts from geopolitical tensions, trade barriers, and stricter environmental regulations, making FTAs increasingly critical for supply chain security. The department is actively promoting FTA usage among Thai entrepreneurs, particularly SMEs, through nationwide seminars and training programs. In fiscal 2025, the department has already enhanced the capabilities of over 1,400 entrepreneurs to leverage trade benefits and expand into new markets.
