Tariff deal expected before the deadline

Pact with Vietnam sets a benchmark

- PHUSADEE ARUNMAS

The head of the Thai Chamber of Commerce anticipates Thailand will finalise a tariff deal with the US prior to the early July deadline.

Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai chamber and the Thai Board of Trade, predicts more favourable tariff rates than those negotiated by Vietnam because of the US's larger trade deficit with Vietnam.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump announced the US reached a trade agreement with Vietnam, charging a 20% tariff on Vietnamese exports to the US and a 40% tariff on transshipments.

Although this week's negotiations mark the first official round between Thailand and the US, previously online discussions were held between officials.

Mr Poj said he anticipates Thailand will reach an agreement with the US by July 9.

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira met yesterday with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, with results from those discussions expected today.