Nation Thailand
Suphajee rejects military-for-tariff deal in US talks
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Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has rejected reports that Thailand offered military concessions in exchange for favourable terms in trade negotiations with the United States, insisting that the talks remain focused on trade and tariff interests.
Key facts
- Thai companies have invested nearly US$20 billion in the US and created a substantial number of jobs, she said, with more than US$5 billion in additional investment being prepared.
- Suphajee said Thailand’s position was consistent with the government spokesman’s clarification that no such exchange involving military conditions had taken place.
- Thailand has also explained to US officials that at least 30% of the trade surplus recorded on the Thai side comes from exports by American companies that have established manufacturing and investment operations in Thailand.
- Around 72% of Thai products have already received US tariff exemptions, she said, including exemptions under the first group of Section 301 measures and Section 232, particularly for agricultural and electronics products.
- The remaining 28% are still subject to tariffs.
Summary
Suphajee said Thailand’s position was consistent with the government spokesman’s clarification that no such exchange involving military conditions had taken place.
Military cooperation between Thailand and the United States already operates under an established framework, she said, while the trade negotiations are centred on securing the best possible balance of tariff benefits for both sides.