Bangkok: The Thai Chamber of Commerce has announced its support for elevating the trade relationship between Thailand and the United States to a "strategic economic partnership." This move aims to enhance clarity on trade regulations and tariffs, facilitating investments in technology, energy, and agro-food sectors while strengthening US-ASEAN supply chains for future investments.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Poj Aramwattananon, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Thai Chambers of Commerce, shared this vision following the 'Thailand-US Trade and Investment Summit 2026: Building on a Longstanding Partnership.' The event, co-hosted by the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AMCHAM), and the US Chamber of Commerce, took place at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, drawing over 200 representatives from government and private sectors of both nations.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, delivered a keynote address at the summit, highlighting Thailand's readiness to contribute to the global supply chain and transition towards a technology-driven economy through partnerships. She emphasized the importance of rebalancing trade by increasing imports of energy and technology from the United States and pursuing negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement.
U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Sean O'Neill, underscored the historical relationship between the two countries and the need for collaboration to foster shared prosperity. He highlighted the U.S.'s readiness to support Thailand's energy security through advanced technology and energy resources, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG). Meanwhile, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Hon. Michael DeSombre, projected that trade between Thailand and the U.S. would reach approximately $111 billion by 2025.
The Thai Chamber of Commerce emphasized the significance of the U.S. as a crucial economic partner, advocating for cooperation that leverages both countries' strengths to create a competitive supply chain. Dr. Poj pointed out the potential for growth through combining U.S. technology, capital, and innovation with Thailand's manufacturing base and strategic location in ASEAN.
The summit also focused on the importance of clear and consistent trade rules for investment decisions. The Thai business sector supports creating a fair tariff framework and accelerating ART negotiations to facilitate effective planning. Additionally, the event highlighted the need for trade rebalancing beyond mere deficits or surpluses, considering broader economic benefits.
A notable feature of the event was the '9-9-9 Session,' which explored collaboration opportunities in nine key areas, including trade, energy, and digital infrastructure. The session underscored the potential for expanding Thai-U.S. economic relations beyond goods trade to include technology and innovation partnerships.
The meeting also proposed practical initiatives in two areas: developing a trusted digital ecosystem and partnering for resilient food-agri supply chains. These initiatives aim to enhance technology transfer and productivity, adapting to economic and geopolitical changes.
The summit emphasized the enduring cooperation between Thailand and the United States, fostering mutual understanding and trust, which are essential for the long-term development of economic relations. Dr. Poj reiterated the importance of transforming partnerships into tangible investments, further solidifying the Thai-U.S. relationship as a Strategic Economic Partnership, thereby reinforcing Thailand's position as a Strategic Gateway linking the U.S., ASEAN, and Asia.