Thailand Expresses Disappointment Over US Suspension of Tariff Negotiations

Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its disappointment with the US Trade Representative's decision to suspend negotiations on import tariff reductions until the Thailand-Cambodia Declaration is implemented. The Thai Foreign Ministry emphasized the need to separate security and trade issues, asserting that Thailand should prioritize its national interests. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorndej Plangkura, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reported that Thailand was informed by the Deputy US Trade Representative about the temporary suspension of negotiations on the Thailand-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement. The negotiations are expected to resume once Thailand commits to the Thailand-Cambodia Peace Declaration. Mr. Nikorndej expressed Thailand's disappointment with the US stance, highlighting that bilateral security issues with Cambodia should be distinct from trade negotiations that benefit both Thailand and the US. US President Donald Trump, in a conversation with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, reiterated that the US does not intend to intervene in Thailand-Cambodia issues through existing bilateral mechanisms. He emphasized that international trade and tariffs are economic policy matters to be considered within the framework of trade cooperation, focusing on mutual interests. The Thai government aims to expand economic opportunities through free trade agreements and international cooperation to maintain competitiveness. Thailand appreciates the US role in supporting peaceful resolutions between Thailand and Cambodia, as discussed in dialogues between Mr. Anutin and Mr. Trump. Thailand remains committed to pursuing peace while prioritizing its interests. In response to inquiries about US tariffs, Mr. Nikorndej stated that Prime Minister Anutin had communicated to President Trump that Thailand seeks to separate border issues from trade negotiations. He also expressed Thailand's commitment to continuing free trade discussions and addressing matters with Cambodia through bilateral mechanisms. Mr. Nikorndej revealed that President Trump understood Thailand's position after discussions with the Prime Minister and promised to discuss the matter with the US Trade Representative. Additionally, the Prime Minister had suggested that if landmines were cleared, a tariff reduction could be requested, to which President Trump humorously agreed. Looking ahead, Mr. Nikorndej indicated that the Ministry of Economic Affairs will proceed with tariff negotiations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hopes that discussions with the US and Malaysian leaders will encourage Cambodia to comprehend Thailand's objectives.