Thailand To Resume US Trade Talks End of August
Thailand will resume technical-level negotiations on US trade tariffs by the end of August, with Commerce Minister Supachai Sathirathai leading discussions that extend beyond tariffs to include investment and support measures.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Sathirathai announced on August 6, 2025, that technical-level negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) regarding US Section 301 tariffs will conclude by month's end. She will travel to participate in discussions alongside technical teams, aiming to maximize Thailand's national interests. Supachai explained that trade policy alone is insufficient because Thailand enjoys a considerable trade surplus with the US, so other negotiation topics—including private-sector investment and additional support measures—must be included.
Regarding US proposals that Thailand cannot accept, Supachai said Thailand will not compromise on its red lines and will employ policy-level strategies. While technical teams can achieve a certain level of agreement, policy-level talks are necessary, as demonstrated in her previous meeting with the US Commerce Secretary to gain a comprehensive view beyond trade balance specifics.
When asked whether Thailand will propose 13 additional export products for tariff exemptions, Supachai noted that Thailand has already secured exemptions for over 2,000 products. Combined with goods under Section 232 that have been negotiated for some time, approximately 72% of Thai exports now enjoy tariff-free status, with 28% still subject to duties. She said officials are evaluating which additional products could qualify for exemptions to expand the benefits further.
