Thai Exporters Await US Supreme Court Tariff Verdict Amid Trade Headwinds
Bangkok firms and policymakers prepare for a pivotal ruling on the legality of reciprocal tariffs that could reshape Thailand’s access to the American market
Thai exporters are bracing for a crucial decision by the United States Supreme Court on the legality of sweeping reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, a ruling that could have significant ramifications for Thailand’s export-oriented economy.
The court is expected to issue its judgement in mid-January, resolving a dispute over whether the U.S. president had the authority to enact broad tariffs under emergency powers after lower courts found parts of the policy unlawful and the case was appealed.
In the interim, Thailand’s trade with its largest export destination continues under an existing 19 per cent tariff agreed in 2025, though the spectre of higher levies on goods transshipped or subject to stricter origin requirements remains.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has indicated that, should the Supreme Court strike down the tariffs, Thailand will consider seeking refunds for duties paid and reversion to pre-tariff rates, even as alternative U.S. trade tools could still be deployed.
The court’s decision follows earlier rulings that found President Donald Trump exceeded his statutory authority in imposing broad measures, leaving Thai businesses and officials attentive to both legal and diplomatic developments.
Thailand’s export community, already adjusting to the 19 per cent tariff and global demand fluctuations, is also watching for guidance on sector-specific duties, rules of origin and potential retaliatory measures.
Government sources emphasize continued negotiations with U.S. counterparts to secure tariff conditions comparable with regional peers and maintain Thailand’s competitiveness.
With Thailand’s substantial trade surplus with the United States and key industries reliant on stable market access, the Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision represents both economic risk and potential relief for exporters navigating an uncertain global trade landscape.
The court is expected to issue its judgement in mid-January, resolving a dispute over whether the U.S. president had the authority to enact broad tariffs under emergency powers after lower courts found parts of the policy unlawful and the case was appealed.
In the interim, Thailand’s trade with its largest export destination continues under an existing 19 per cent tariff agreed in 2025, though the spectre of higher levies on goods transshipped or subject to stricter origin requirements remains.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has indicated that, should the Supreme Court strike down the tariffs, Thailand will consider seeking refunds for duties paid and reversion to pre-tariff rates, even as alternative U.S. trade tools could still be deployed.
The court’s decision follows earlier rulings that found President Donald Trump exceeded his statutory authority in imposing broad measures, leaving Thai businesses and officials attentive to both legal and diplomatic developments.
Thailand’s export community, already adjusting to the 19 per cent tariff and global demand fluctuations, is also watching for guidance on sector-specific duties, rules of origin and potential retaliatory measures.
Government sources emphasize continued negotiations with U.S. counterparts to secure tariff conditions comparable with regional peers and maintain Thailand’s competitiveness.
With Thailand’s substantial trade surplus with the United States and key industries reliant on stable market access, the Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision represents both economic risk and potential relief for exporters navigating an uncertain global trade landscape.
