The Thai Commerce Minister is set to travel to the U.S. early next month to engage in discussions aimed at preventing potential tariff increases on Thai exports, following a recent meeting with the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (Amcham).
During his visit, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan plans to meet with members of the House Ways and Means Committee, Senate Finance Committee, Senate Foreign Relations Committee, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council. He indicated that the ministry intends to take significant measures to remove Thailand from the U.S. Trade Watch List.
At the meeting with Amcham representatives in Thailand, Mr. Pichai highlighted that both parties discussed strategies to enhance trade and investment between the two nations. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that would drive economic growth.
He outlined crucial trade policies that focus on stimulating the economy, promoting the production and export of innovative products as part of the “Thailand Next Level” initiative, and attracting foreign investors. Mr. Pichai urged U.S. investors to expand their trade and investment activities in Thailand, particularly in high-potential sectors such as printed circuit boards, semiconductors, and data centers.
Other key areas of focus include negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs), increasing exports, positioning Thailand as a global hub for food and logistics, advancing the green economy for sustainability, developing the digital economy, and leveraging U.S. expertise in advanced technology and innovation.
Amcham expressed its readiness to work with the government, noting that policies reminiscent of Trump’s “2.0 policies” could assist Thailand in attracting additional trade and investment.
The chamber introduced its “Five to Thrive 2025” proposal, which provides recommendations for the Thai government to enhance business facilitation and create a more conducive environment for trade and investment. It also supports Thailand’s efforts to pursue FTAs with other nations and to extend the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences program to maintain supply chain efficiency and export competitiveness.
Amcham is scheduled to host the Thailand-US Trade & Investment Conference 2025 in May, aiming to strengthen the strategic partnership and showcase trade and investment opportunities while proposing practical policies and future collaborations.
