Thailand to Appeal US Tariff Hike, Targets Lowest Rate Possible
Thailand will appeal a newly imposed 12.5% US tariff on its goods, citing forced labor compliance concerns, and aims to negotiate the rate down to the lowest possible level through its strong trade relationship with America.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated on July 24, 2569, at Government House that the United States tariff of 12.5% on Thai goods represents a compliance issue. He said Thailand received preliminary notification of the tariff and is expediting work by relevant agencies to address it, noting that concerns relate to forced labor matters. Anutin acknowledged the need to examine why such issues were not resolved earlier but expressed confidence that Thailand's strong relationship and good trading partnership with the US will allow it to appeal for a tariff reduction at the first available opportunity. When asked if Thailand aims to restore the rate to 10%, Anutin said negotiations must achieve the lowest possible rate, requiring thorough preparation. He deferred details on the timing of future negotiations, awaiting a full report from Commerce Minister Supachai Suthithamronpanit, who heads Thailand's US negotiating team and is returning from America.
