FX.co ★ Thailand Calls for U.S. Tariff Talks After Surprise 36% Levy

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Thursday that Thailand will engage in negotiations with the United States regarding newly imposed tariffs. This follows U.S. President Trump's recent decision to introduce extensive import duties impacting several nations. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat acknowledged that the government had anticipated certain tariffs; however, the 36% rate was unexpectedly high. Prior to this announcement, Thailand had been cautiously observing the situation while committing to boost imports of American energy and food products as a strategy to mitigate its trade surplus. The United States stands as Thailand's largest export destination, with primary exports comprising electronics, machinery, and agricultural produce. Thailand has also been identified among the "Dirty 15," a group of countries potentially affected significantly by the new tariffs. Presently, the average tariff on Thai imports into the U.S. is approximately 2%, while Thai tariffs on American goods are around 8%.