Thailand to boost US imports in response to Trump’s 36% tariffs

ISTANBUL

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced Sunday that Thailand will increase imports of energy, aircraft, and agricultural products from the United States in response to the Trump administration’s newly imposed 36% tariff on Thai exports to the US market.

Speaking to Thai media, Shinawatra said the government will also encourage more Thai investment in the US and ease restrictions on American imports, according to Thai PBS.

In a statement outlining Thailand’s position, Shinawatra warned that the steep tariffs would significantly affect key export sectors including electronics, processed foods, and agricultural goods. However, she emphasized that Thailand, a long-standing ally and economic partner of the US, remains committed to strengthening bilateral trade relations.

As part of its response, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira will lead an official delegation to Washington for high-level discussions with both US government officials and private sector leaders.

Meanwhile, Indonesia also signaled a diplomatic approach to the US’s recent tariff measures. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto told Antara News on Sunday that Jakarta would initiate negotiations following the Trump administration’s 32% import tariff on Indonesian goods.

Rather than implementing counter-tariffs, Hartarto said Indonesia aims to find mutually beneficial solutions through diplomacy and dialogue.