Thailand airs concern over tariff policy

Experts have urged Thailand to take proactive measures to minimize the potential harm from US President Donald Trump's tariff policies as the kingdom is particularly vulnerable to risks of higher reciprocal tariffs among emerging economies in Southeast Asia. As a country with an export-oriented economy, Thailand will see a drop in its products' competitiveness in the global trade market if the US expands its tariff policy to more countries, said Narongsak Putthapornmongkol, president of the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce. After Trump's return to office, trade policies and international relations have gained greater attention, particularly under the "America First" policy, which places US interests at the forefront, said Burin Adulwattana, managing director and chief economist of Kasikorn Research Center in Thailand. "It is also important to increase the added value of Thailand's manufacturing industry, promoting smart manufacturing and technological innovation while enhancing product competitiveness to mitigate the impact of tariffs," he said, emphasizing the need to strengthen the domestic market and establish a flexible supply chain. "Overall, Thailand needs to seek opportunities in the changing situation and reduce the potential impact of US tariff policies through multilateral cooperation, industrial transformation, and policy flexibility," Narongsak said.