Commerce Ministry Strengthens Trade Resilience Amid U.S. Policy Shifts

At a meeting led by the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Commerce, headed by Permanent Secretary Vuttikrai Leewiraphan, presented Thailand’s robust export performance for 2024 and early 2025. In March 2025 alone, exports surged to $29.55 billion, marking a 17.8% increase and nine months of consecutive growth. For 2024, exports totaled $300.53 billion, a 5.4% rise year-on-year. The first quarter of 2025 saw exports reach $81.53 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $1.08 billion.

Key Takeways

• Export Growth and Strategy: Thailand’s exports hit a record $29.55 billion in March 2025, with a 17.8% increase, marking nine months of growth. 2024 exports totaled $300.53 billion, up 5.4%. The first quarter of 2025 saw $81.53 billion, a 15.2% rise, creating a trade surplus of $1.08 billion.
• U.S. Trade Engagement: To adapt to global pressures, particularly from the U.S., a trade policy task force, guided by the Commerce Permanent Secretary, monitors trends and formulates responses. A Thai delegation visited the U.S. to foster understanding, address concerns, and communicate Thailand’s trade position.
• Technological Advancements: The ministry is advancing digital public service systems, using technology and innovation to drive trade. Initiatives include an electronic document system to enhance communication and collaboration with stakeholders, urging them to resolve trade barriers, support essential imports, and expand Thai investment in the U.S.

To adapt to global changes, the ministry is enhancing digital services and strategic responses, focusing on trade pressures from superpowers like the U.S. A U.S. trade policy task force, chaired by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, monitors trends and formulates policies. In February, a Thai delegation visited the U.S. to address business concerns and strengthen trade relations. The ministry also collaborates with the Joint Standing Committee to resolve trade barriers and promote investment in the U.S., using digital innovations like electronic document systems to boost trade efficiency.

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