Bangkok: “Phumtham” believes there is still hope for trade and tax negotiations with the United States, sees the announcement of a 36% tax collection as still contradicting discussions.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acting as Prime Minister, addressed the recent US announcement of a 36% import tax on Thai products. He revealed that negotiations had been in progress since his visit to Singapore, where he spoke with the US Secretary of Defense. During their conversation, a significant point of discussion was securing a negotiation date, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the US and Thailand. Although a date was provided before the negotiations, the US announced a tariff rate of 36%, which Mr. Phumtham noted as contradictory to earlier discussions.

In meetings with trade representatives, who had set an appointment, discrepancies were noted between the communications from Government House and related parties and the US’s position. Mr. Phumtham expressed optimism that if the information can be reconciled, the situation would improve. He suggested that further clarity and improvement could be expected after Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, provides additional details.