Thai FM seeks Rubio’s help over new 12.5% US tariff

During the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has asked his US counterpart, Marco Rubio, for help Thailand to avoid the new 12.5% tariff being imposed on Thai imports, and those from 59 other countries.

He told the media that, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit, the US secretary of state had approached him for informal talks and he had assured him that Thailand remains a major strategic ally of the US.

On the same occasion, he said he asked Rubio for help regarding the new US tariffs, claiming that Thailand should not be treated the same as other countries because of the different backgrounds, adding that he would like Washington to be more flexible.

Rubio responded by saying that he is not involved in the tariff issue, but promised to convey Thailand’s concern to the authorities concerned.

Sihasak also said he informed Rubio of Thailand’s stance regarding Cambodia, but did not ask for help from the US.

Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade, said today though that the 12.5% tariff on Thai imports to the US is acceptable and that Thai products remain competitive in the US market because the tariffs apply to competitors as well.

Even though several countries are facing a 10% tariff, he said the additional 2.5% is insignificant and will not seriously impact Thailand’s competitiveness.

Poj pointed out, however, that the US’s main concerns are forced labour and excess capacity products, as he urged the government to address the forced labour problem in earnest.

Regarding excess capacity products, Poj said the issue may impact certain groups of Thai products as he suggested that the government accelerate the conclusion of Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the US.

The most important thing now, he said, is for both the government and private sectors to work closely to prepare for the trade talks.