Formal trade talks between Thailand and the United States are set to begin, marking a new chapter in bilateral economic cooperation. The Thai Government announced it has received confirmation from U.S. trade officials expressing readiness to engage in discussions on tariffs and broader trade matters. Thai officials have emphasized their commitment to fostering fair and mutually beneficial trade.

Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance shared the development via an update on his official Facebook page, stating that the U.S. has officially agreed to initiate negotiations on tariff policies and key bilateral trade issues.

Thailand has actively sought to engage U.S. counterparts on these matters, particularly since the introduction of broad reciprocal tariff measures by the administration of former President Donald Trump in April. With an export-driven economy, Thailand counts the United States as one of its most significant trading partners.

Trade has long been central to U.S.–Thailand relations. The two countries signed their first bilateral treaty in the 1830s, establishing the United States’ oldest treaty alliance in Asia—an alliance founded on commerce and economic cooperation.
The U.S. State Department describes Thailand as possessing "a half-trillion-dollar economy, generally pro-investment policies, and well-developed infrastructure." In recent decades, the country has become a key destination for foreign direct investment, with hundreds of American companies operating successfully across various sectors.

Deputy Prime Minister Pichai outlined five primary areas of focus for Thailand’s proposals: increasing imports of U.S. goods, reducing trade barriers, ensuring strict enforcement of rules of origin, promoting Thai investment in the United States, and deepening collaboration in the food and agricultural industries.

While no official date for the talks has been announced, both sides appear poised to move forward with a shared interest in strengthening economic ties.