Thailand and US Accelerate ART Trade Negotiations; Supachai Pushes for Tariff Exemptions on US-Unavailable Agricultural Products
Thailand and the US are accelerating trade negotiations on a reciprocal agreement, with Thai officials seeking tariff exemptions for agricultural products the US cannot produce domestically. Commerce Minister Supachai will lead a business d
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Panitchpakdi revealed on April 25, 2025, following discussions with US Ambassador to Thailand Sean Oniell on Friday, April 24, that the talks were constructive and reflected mutual confidence in elevating economic and trade relations between Thailand and the US, a partnership spanning over 190 years.
Supachai announced that the Thai government prioritizes negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the US and is prepared to work closely with American counterparts. Thailand is committed to advancing the negotiations toward a quick conclusion to build confidence in both countries' business and market sectors.
Regarding US Section 301 investigations, Supachai emphasized that Thailand has provided comprehensive information on excess capacity and forced labor import ban issues, noting that many Thai exports are supply chain products supporting US manufacturing.
Thailand also affirmed its labor standards align with international norms and is ready to collaborate closely with the US for mutually beneficial outcomes.
Thailand has proposed that the US consider tariff exemptions for products it cannot produce domestically, particularly key agricultural exports, to minimize consumer impact in the US and promote more mutually beneficial trade.
Supachai also announced plans to visit the US in early May to attend the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026, leading a delegation of Thai business leaders focused on expanding investment in key US sectors. He will also meet with USABC and USCC investors to promote bilateral investment and witness business cooperation agreements (MOUs), reflecting private sector confidence in the US economy and strategic partnership between both nations.
Thailand plans to balance trade by importing essential goods and raw materials from the US, such as agricultural and energy products, demonstrating Thailand's commitment as a responsible and reliable economic partner.
Supachai concluded that Thailand views the US as a strategically important trade partner, and these discussions reflect shared intent to elevate economic relations. Thailand stands ready to work closely with the US to achieve sustainable long-term mutual benefits.
In 2024, the US was Thailand's second-largest trading partner with total trade value exceeding $93.65 billion, with Thai exports to the US valued at $72.51 billion, covering major products including computers, rubber products, gems, automobiles, and air conditioning units. Thai imports from the US reached $21.14 billion.
