The Ministry of Commerce has convened a meeting with over 50 representatives from the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) to discuss strengthening trade relations and attracting investment to Thailand. The discussions covered key areas such as resolving trade barriers, expanding market access, and promoting Thailand as a strategic hub for U.S. investors. The meeting highlighted growing confidence in Thailand’s economic landscape, with companies like Western Digital and Seagate planning expansions in the country.

Prominent firms represented at the meeting included Amazon, Boeing, ExxonMobil, Google, Pfizer, and Mastercard, among others. The United States remains a key trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $55.68 billion from January to September 2024, a 9.84% increase from the previous year. Thai exports to the U.S. include computers, electronic circuits, and rubber products, while imports consist of machinery, crude oil, and aircraft.

The Commerce Ministry detailed progress on free trade agreements with the European Free Trade Association, the EU, and ASEAN-Canada, which are anticipated to enhance trade efficiency and create opportunities in new markets. Planned trade missions to Japan and Canada seek to attract investments in key areas such as semiconductors, clean energy, and printed circuit board manufacturing, strengthening Thailand’s role in emerging industries.

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan noted that Thailand’s efforts to address investor concerns, build global partnerships, and diversify the economy are expected to contribute to sustainable growth and bolster Thailand’s economic resilience in the coming months.