Thailand will engage in detailed negotiations with the United States concerning a reciprocal tariff agreement, scheduled between late August and September 2025. The Thai Cabinet has approved a joint statement on the matter, with the Office of the US Trade Representative initiating the negotiation process.
The proposed agreement, upon conclusion, will be submitted to the Thai Parliament for approval. Currently, Thai exports to the US are subject to a 19% reciprocal tariff, reduced from an initial 36%, following Thailand’s removal of import duties on over 10,000 US-origin products. This tariff adjustment aims to preserve the competitiveness of Thai exporters.
Key negotiation topics include market access, non-tariff barriers, and product-specific tariff rates. A critical focus is the alignment with Regional Value Content (RVC) and rules of origin criteria, which remain uncertain due to unclear US policies on whether RVC will be established bilaterally or unilaterally for Thailand or regionally applied.
US’s RVC approach is needed to enable thorough evaluation of implications for Thai businesses, especially SMEs. The International Institute for Trade and Development has been tasked to coordinate stakeholder consultations and assess the potential impacts, necessary adjustments, and government support.
To assist exporters in adapting to new regulations and enhancing global competitiveness, the Ministry of Commerce will inaugurate a one-stop service center at the Export Promotion Center in Bangkok.
The Ministry affirms that negotiation outcomes must balance interests and maximize benefits for Thailand, carefully considering all stakeholder effects prior to finalizing the agreement.
Thailand-US Reciprocal Tariff Negotiations and Trade Facilitation Measures_Bangkok Global Law