Bangkok, April 3 – Thailand is preparing to engage in negotiations with the United States to address the steep new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Thursday.

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The U.S. administration unveiled sweeping trade measures this week, including a 36% tariff on certain Thai imports, as part of a broader global escalation that has rattled financial markets. Trump also imposed a 10% baseline tariff on imports worldwide, with even higher punitive rates on key trade partners—Vietnam faces a 46% levy, while Cambodia was hit with 49%.

“We Have a Strong Plan”

PM Paetongtarn expressed confidence in Thailand’s ability to mitigate the economic impact, stating, “We have prepared several steps, including sending our permanent secretary to talk with them… I think we can still negotiate.” She did not provide further details on the proposed countermeasures but emphasized the government’s proactive approach, Reuters reported.

BREAKING: This is Horrific!

Trump just announced the following Tariffs for the following countries and a 10% baseline tariff on all others not listed.

China – 34%
EU – 20%
Vietnam – 46%
Japan – 24%
Taiwan – 32$
India – 26%
Thailand – 36%
South Korea – 25%
Switzerland – 31%… pic.twitter.com/v8FySoDJeO

— Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) April 2, 2025

Trump framed the aggressive trade policy as “Liberation Day” for the U.S. economy, claiming it would bolster American wealth. However, the move drew swift criticism from allies and triggered market volatility, with analysts warning of potential supply chain disruptions and retaliatory measures.

Southeast Asia in the Crosshairs

Thailand, which recorded a $25 billion trade surplus with the U.S. last year, is among several Southeast Asian nations targeted in Trump’s latest protectionist push. The tariffs threaten key Thai exports such as electronics, automotive parts, and agricultural products.

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Commerce Ministry officials indicated that Bangkok may explore WTO dispute mechanisms if negotiations stall, while private sector leaders urged diversification to reduce reliance on the U.S. market.

<strong>-Thailand News (TN)</strong>