# US Pressures Thailand to Resolve Trade Concerns as Tariff Talks Stall

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/politics/211812-us-pressures-thailand-to-resolve-trade-concerns-as-tariff-talks-stall
- Published: 2025-04-23T09:31:00+07:00
- Author: Arun Upadhyaya

Talks between the US and Thailand regarding the Trump administration’s plan to impose
a 36% tariff have been postponed. Washington requested Thailand address certain 
trade issues, but no new dates for negotiations have been set. Prime Minister Paetongtarn
Shinawatra stated that the talks would involve mutual concessions.

The US wants Thailand to prevent misuse of certificates of origin by countries facing
higher tariffs and address concerns over currency manipulation. Thailand’s trade
surplus with the US has increased significantly, leading to higher import levies.
Recently, the US imposed duties up to 3,521% on solar imports from Southeast Asia,
including Thailand, due to unfair subsidies. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan
expressed optimism for a favorable outcome, given the strong bilateral relations.
Thailand’s government warned that the tariffs could reduce growth by at least one
percentage point if not negotiated down, and has offered to increase imports of 
US commodities to secure a deal.

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The United States is urging Thailand to address longstanding trade barriers, including
agricultural tariffs and intellectual property protections, as negotiations over
a potential free trade agreement (FTA) face delays. The push comes amid growing 
frustration from American businesses over what they describe as unfair market restrictions
in the Southeast Asian nation.

Senior US trade officials have raised concerns about Thailand’s high import duties
on key American exports, such as pork, dairy, and machinery, as well as lax enforcement
of copyright and patent laws. Talks on reducing tariffs, initially expected to advance
this year, have been postponed indefinitely, according to sources familiar with 
the discussions. A US Trade Representative (USTR) spokesperson stated, “We continue
to engage with Thailand to resolve these issues, which are critical for a level 
playing field.”

Thailand, a major regional trade hub, has sought to strengthen economic ties with
the US but faces domestic pressure to protect local industries. Analysts suggest
the delays reflect broader geopolitical tensions, as Thailand deepens trade relations
with China. “The US wants assurances on market access, but Thailand is walking a
tightrope between its largest trading partners,” said trade expert Somchai Phatharathananunth
of Chulalongkorn University.

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With no resumption date set for formal talks, businesses on both sides await clarity.
The outcome could shape future US-Thailand trade dynamics amid shifting global supply
chains.

_Sources: US Trade Representative statement, Reuters, Bangkok Post_