Tue Jun 17 07:00:49 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Thailand to Begin Trade Talks with U.S. to Avert Tariff Hike**
**Bangkok, Thailand – June 17, 2025** – Thailand is set to formally submit a trade proposal to the United States this week, initiating discussions aimed at averting potentially crippling tariffs. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced the move, stating that the first round of talks will be conducted online.
The Southeast Asian nation is facing a looming threat of a 36% U.S. tariff on its exports if a negotiated reduction cannot be achieved before President Trump’s 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs expires in July. The current baseline tariff is capped at 10%.
According to Minister Chunhavajira, technical discussions at the official level will precede the formal proposal submission. He added that in-person meetings will be considered following these initial online talks.
The proposal aims to address the trade imbalance between the two countries, focusing on enhancing market access for U.S. exports, tackling transshipment violations, and encouraging Thai investment that creates U.S. jobs. The Commerce Minister is optimistic that a mutually beneficial agreement, possibly as low as a 10% tariff, can be reached.
The United States is Thailand’s largest export market, accounting for 18.3% of total shipments valued at $55 billion in 2024. Washington estimates its trade deficit with Thailand at $45.6 billion.
In related news, a meeting is scheduled for Wednesday to discuss a 157 billion baht ($4.8 billion) economic stimulus project, intended to mitigate the impact of potential U.S. tariffs on Thailand’s sluggish economy, which is projected to grow by just over 1% this year.
Finally, Minister Chunhavajira stated his willingness to work with whomever is selected as the next central bank governor.
First Piper 