Bangkok: The Department of Trade Negotiations has confirmed plans to proceed with trade negotiations with the United States by the end of this year. The talks will maintain their original timeframe, aiming for completion by the end of this year, with a clear separation of trade and security issues.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Chotima Iamsawasdikul, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Negotiations, announced the progress concerning the reciprocal trade agreement with the United States. The Thai government continues to prioritize this issue, maintaining constant communication with the United States through the Ministry of Commerce.
Ms. Chotima disclosed that information from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) suggests that the United States is likely to adhere to the original deadline, targeting the completion of negotiations by the end of 2025. The Thai side has consistently emphasized to the USTR the need for a clear separation between “trade” and “security,” particularly highlighted during a recent meeting at the APEC conference.
“The Thai government has been diligently preparing for intensive negotiations with the United States,” said Ms. Chotima, noting that a working group and committee have been established, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, to align with the original goals.
Domestically, Ms. Chotima noted efforts to strengthen the capabilities of entrepreneurs dealing in high-potential products, both goods and services. Preparations are also underway to explore new markets through dialogue with existing trade partners and new free trade agreements (FTAs), to ready entrepreneurs for the competitive international trade and investment landscape.
Ms. Chotima reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to its original goals, emphasizing the importance of considering feedback from all sectors to ensure the benefits and impacts of negotiations are fully evaluated. Following communication from the USTR, meetings between the leaders of both countries have reinforced the commitment to move forward and negotiate with the USTR.
The details of the trade reciprocity agreement are under discussion, requiring domestic work from both sides. The Thai working group is meeting regularly, and Thailand is prepared to communicate its readiness to the United States for the next official negotiations. The commitment to continue working without interruption during this period remains strong.