Struggling US-Thai talks hit sentiment

Weaker market sentiment is expected as initial US-Thailand trade negotiations stalled, while Washington's announcement of a 10% tariff on BRICS members has raised concerns over escalating trade tensions.

- NUNTAWUN POLKUAMDEE

Late on Friday, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira admitted the US and Thailand have not reached a trade deal after the first face-to-face meeting last week.

The setback comes as media outlets reported the US is considering a curb on artificial intelligence (AI) chip exports to Malaysia and Thailand as it is worried the two countries will reroute the products to China.

The outlook remains uncertain, particularly with the US planning to impose tariffs of up to 36% on countries with significant trade surpluses, including Thailand.

The initial negotiation round, led by Mr Pichai, ended without progress, prompting the US to extend the negotiation deadline from July 9 to Aug 1.