Thailand–Malaysia Join Forces! Propose ASEAN Response to U.S. Trade Policies
On April 17, 2025, Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan, Thailand’s Minister of Commerce, held discussions with Mr. Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, who is also serving as Chair of the ASEAN Economic Ministers for the year. The two strategies discussed to handle the U.S. new trade policies, especially the countervailing duties, are negotiating with the U.S. and imposing retaliatory tariffs, which could impact several ASEAN member states.
Thai Government Moves Forward to Balance Trade with the U.S., Aims to Cut Trade Surplus by 50%
Thai Government Moves Forward to Balance Trade with the U.S., Targets a 50% Reduction in Trade Surplus within 5 Years
The Thai government is strengthening trade negotiations with the U.S. after being closely watched as one of the countries with the largest trade surpluses with the U.S. In 2024, Thailand recorded a trade surplus of over $35 billion, and the 2025 forecast could reach $45 billion, placing Thailand among the top 10 countries with the largest trade surpluses.
Thailand Considers Hosting MotoGP and F1 to Boost the Economy
Thailand is currently in the process of deciding whether to extend the contract to continue hosting MotoGP, as the current agreement ends in 2026. If the extension happens, discussions must begin this year.
