US tariff hike prompts new trade strategy

An adviser to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has emphasised that the government's approach to negotiations over US tariffs must be based on a "know your enemy, know yourself" strategy, which aims to carefully assess the situation and Thailand's strengths before engaging in talks.

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA

The adviser, Supavud Saicheua, said the Thai government is preparing to open discussions on reducing import tariffs and increasing Thai investment in the United States. This move comes in response to the 36% hike in import tariffs on Thai goods, which is set to take effect tomorrow.

One key strategy is to import US agricultural products, which will then be processed into food products for export to other countries. Thailand's expertise in food processing provides a significant advantage in this area. He said that the government plans to build business partnerships with US states with large agricultural industries to support this strategy.