Thailand rushes US trade deal ahead of possible Section 301 review
Thailand is fast-tracking trade negotiations with the United States to finalize a reciprocal trade agreement before a potential tariff review, with officials resolving labor and capacity concerns in ongoing talks.
BANGKOK — May 12, 2026 — Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun announced that Thailand is fast-tracking negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States to minimize tariff exposure ahead of a Section 301 review.
Following her recent trip to the United States, Ms. Suphajee said technical discussions were held on May 4 with Jamieson Greer and Rick Switzer to advance the stalled ART negotiations. Thai officials remain in the United States for expert-level talks focusing on asset capacity and forced labor concerns.
Ms. Suphajee said her discussions aimed to clarify Thailand's position following the country's formal submission on April 15. She emphasized that all key issues have been thoroughly explained with no major stumbling blocks identified. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to maximizing mutual trade benefits.
Thailand hopes to finalize the ART agreement before any Section 301 investigation—which examines unfair trade practices—moves forward. The discussions also touched on Thailand's trade surplus with the United States, which grew significantly last year. Ms. Suphajee clarified that at least 30 percent of the additional surplus stems from products manufactured by US-invested companies operating in Thailand, while over 20 percent comes from Thai companies.
Regarding concerns about transshipment and potential misuse of trade privileges, Ms. Suphajee stated that Thailand has prepared comprehensive documentation and data to address all relevant matters.
