Bangkok: Highlighting the competitive edge gained through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Thailand achieved an impressive 81.32% utilization rate, significantly boosting Small and Medium Enterprises' (SMEs) access to potential markets.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of International Trade disclosed that from January to May 2026, Thailand utilized over US$40,442.67 million in FTA benefits, approximately 1.37 trillion baht, marking an 8.38% increase. This high utilization rate underscores Thailand's strategic use of FTAs to gain leverage in the evolving global trade landscape, characterized by ongoing supply chain restructuring. The ministry remains committed to enabling SMEs to harness these opportunities in emerging markets.
Ms. Arada Fuengthong, Director-General of the Department of International Trade, reported that the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) led the FTA utilization, with exports valued at US$13,403.40 million and a 68.93% utilization rate. The ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) followed, with US$11,869.35 million in exports and an impressive 94.33% utilization rate. The ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA) accounted for US$5,526.55 million with a 78.97% utilization rate. Meanwhile, the Thailand-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA) and the Thailand-Australia Free Trade Agreement (TAFTA) contributed US$3,101.48 million and US$2,451.50 million, respectively.
The leading products benefiting from FTA advantages in May 2026 included fresh durian, motor vehicles for goods transport, and jewelry. The agricultural sector, particularly fresh durian and processed chicken meat, dominated FTA utilization, with a total value of US$10,811.70 million, making up 26.73% of the overall FTA utilization value.
Amidst geopolitical shifts and economic polarization, Thailand's strategic position, neutrality in international relations, and robust FTA network offer substantial opportunities. The Department plans to enhance trade prospects for Thai entrepreneurs through initiatives like the 'Boost Up SMEs to FTA Markets' project. This initiative will facilitate SME entry into high-value markets such as Switzerland and Norway and prepare for the forthcoming Thailand-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Free Trade Agreement, anticipated in early 2027.
Ms. Arada emphasized, "This initiative will enable entrepreneurs to meet buyers and importers, build business networks, and leverage the FTA for long-term business expansion." The upcoming project underscores Thailand's proactive approach to expanding its trade footprint and upgrading Thai products to premium levels in international markets.