Thailand sends trade negotiation delegation to US

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira will lead a delegation to the U.S. to discuss trade issues, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Sunday.

The PM said the U.S. had imposed a 36% tariff on Thai exports, which has a significant impact on our exports, especially electronics, processed foods, and farm products.

Paetongtarn said the government on Sunday formed a working group to discuss the issue and consider proposals with the private sector and representatives of the U.S., both formally and informally.

“This week, Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, will leave for discussions with many parties in the US - the government sector, the private sector and stakeholders,” the PM said as cited by the Bangkok Post.

The Thai government has come up with policy-related proposals including an increase in imports from the U.S. in the energy, aircraft and farm sectors, she said.

Thailand plans to develop cooperation with the agricultural, industrial and other sectors in the U.S. and there are many more details relevant to the matter, Paetongtarn said.

Thailand will request that the U.S. grant promotional privileges for Thai investors and fewer obstacles to Thai exports. It would also suppress products for export that claim to originate from Thailand (but in fact come from other countries), according to the PM.

At home, she said that her government would introduce immediate and long-term measures to help affected Thai business operators - small and medium-sized enterprises and large-scale industrialists.

Paetongtarn said that she would meet parties concerned on Tuesday to discuss plans to protect the national interest and economy.