Thai PM Says US Tariff Discussions Are Postponed Due to Review of Important Issues

Thailand has postponed US tariff negotiations in order to preserve agriculture and modify export conditions while important trade problems are reviewed.

Following Washington’s request for a review of critical concerns, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated Tuesday that Thailand has delayed its next trade talks with the United States. A new date for the discussions has not yet been set, but they are currently being delayed from their original April 23 date.

If a settlement is not achieved before a worldwide trade moratorium ends in July, Thailand may be subject to high US tariffs of up to 36%. This is why the delay occurred. One of the Southeast Asian countries most impacted by the tariffs imposed under former President Donald Trump’s administration is this one.

“We are reviewing the necessary issues, including our tariffs, which may be appropriately adjusted,” Paetongtarn stated. “We are not too slow.” She emphasized that the current evaluation closely examines Thai agricultural exports and possible import modifications.

The stakes are high: in 2024, Thailand’s top export destination was the United States, which accounted for 18.3% of all shipments, or $54.96 billion. However, Washington’s demand for more stringent terms has been fueled by a $45.6 billion trade deficit with Thailand.

According to the prime minister, “we are consulting academics and all parties and doing our best in this situation.” She went on to say, “We are protecting agricultural interests as much as possible,” emphasizing the necessity of mutually beneficial discussions.

The strain is already being felt by Thailand’s agriculture industry. The government may not meet its full-year target of 7.5 million metric tons of rice, as Thai exports fell 30% in the first quarter of 2025. The U.S. was Thailand’s third-largest market by volume in 2024, with 9.94 million tons of rice worth 225.65 billion baht being shipped.

The high-level negotiations were delayed, but working-level conversations are still going on, according to Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, who was scheduled to participate in the sessions in Washington. Additionally, he said he has no imminent intentions to visit the US.

As the deadline draws near, both nations seem to be shifting their stances, with Thailand seeking to find a middle ground between safeguarding its most important sectors and preserving vital trading relations with its biggest export market.