US Tariff Measures Weighed as Factor in Thailand’s Export Slowdown
Analysts point to new American trade barriers as a drag on Thai export growth
Thailand’s export growth has shown signs of cooling, with analysts pointing to recent U.S. tariff measures as a contributing headwind.
August export figures rose 5.8 percent year-on-year—marking the slowest pace in nearly a year—amid pressures from U.S. tariffs and a strong baht.
The United States had initially set a 36 percent tariff on Thai imports, later revised downward to 19 percent.
Broad sectors including processed foods, electronics, automotive parts, textiles and chemicals are reported to be under strain as tariffs and non-tariff barriers bite.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) warns that damages could approach 800–900 billion baht if high-duty regimes are upheld, and it is calling for urgent government action and bilateral negotiations to moderate the impact.
Thailand is preparing diplomatic and trade countermeasures: reforming import duty structures, easing non-tariff hurdles, refining rules of origin, and boosting imports from the U.S. to reduce its trade surplus.
Financial markets have already reacted—Thailand’s stock index slid sharply and the baht weakened—as concerns ripple through industry and investment circles.
August export figures rose 5.8 percent year-on-year—marking the slowest pace in nearly a year—amid pressures from U.S. tariffs and a strong baht.
The United States had initially set a 36 percent tariff on Thai imports, later revised downward to 19 percent.
Broad sectors including processed foods, electronics, automotive parts, textiles and chemicals are reported to be under strain as tariffs and non-tariff barriers bite.
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) warns that damages could approach 800–900 billion baht if high-duty regimes are upheld, and it is calling for urgent government action and bilateral negotiations to moderate the impact.
Thailand is preparing diplomatic and trade countermeasures: reforming import duty structures, easing non-tariff hurdles, refining rules of origin, and boosting imports from the U.S. to reduce its trade surplus.
Financial markets have already reacted—Thailand’s stock index slid sharply and the baht weakened—as concerns ripple through industry and investment circles.
