Thailand’s exports in April 2025 increased by 10.2% compared to the same month last year, marking the tenth consecutive month of growth as importers boosted their inventories during the US’s 90-day reciprocal tariff pause.
According to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, April’s exports reached US$25.6 billion, while imports totaled $28.9 billion—a 16.1% year-on-year increase—resulting in a trade deficit of $3.32 billion. For the first four months of the year, exports accumulated to $107.1 billion, up 14% year-on-year, with imports reaching $109.4 billion, up 9.6%, and a trade deficit of $2.24 billion.
Pichai highlighted that the steady export growth reflects Thailand’s economic resilience, countering earlier worries that US tariff policies would severely impact exports. In fact, April saw shipments to the US, Thailand’s largest export market, rise 23.8% year-on-year, marking the 19th straight month of growth. Export gains were also reported to China (3.2%), ASEAN (7.8%), South Asia (8.7%), the EU (6.1%), and Japan (5.5%).
He noted that if ongoing US-US trade negotiations result in tariff equity with other exporting countries, Thailand’s competitive position could be greatly strengthened. He added that progress has been made, with expectations of an eventual resolution by the end of the current 90-day tariff exemption period, which concludes on July 9. Additionally, FTA talks with the EU are expected to finalize within this year, further boosting trade relations.
Pichai emphasized that exports are likely to remain the driving force of Thailand’s economy in 2025. If exports average $25 billion monthly in the remaining months, the annual growth could surpass 4% even without further increases.
Poj Aramwattananont, Chair of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, attributed the recent double-digit export growth primarily to increased shipments during the US tariff pause, which significantly boosted exports to the US while other markets also recorded gains.
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director-General of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, forecasts continued export growth into the second quarter. He mentioned that if the US imposes reciprocal tariffs similar to those on other nations, the impact on Thailand will likely be minimal. The government continues proactive strategies such as FTA negotiations, value enhancement initiatives, market access expansion, and measures to prevent circumvention, curb smuggling, and uphold product quality and standards.
