Ministry unveils wartime assistance measures

The Commerce Ministry is rolling out six measures to manage prices and assist exporters amid surging freight costs caused by conflicts in the Middle East.

- SOMHATAI MOSIKA

Caretaker commerce minister Suphajee Suthumpun said while the direct impact on Thailand's trade with the countries involved in the conflict is limited, the escalating situation in the region has significant effects on global economic and trade stability, particularly in energy and maritime transport, which requires monitoring.

In 2025, Thailand's exports to the Middle East tallied US$12.5 billion, accounting for 3.67% of total export value.

There are no signs of widespread order cancellations or delays yet, she said.

However, the impact in the Middle East and on global markets is expected to intensify as tensions increase, especially for nations dependent on shipping routes in the conflict zone.