Bangkok: Exports in 2025 are projected to maintain robust growth as the United States reduces import tariffs to 19%. The Ministry of Commerce has reported ongoing expansion in Thai exports over the first seven months of 2025, with significant gains in both primary and secondary markets across various regions. This growth has been propelled by accelerated exports ahead of the full implementation of the new US tariff. The Ministry is also taking steps to open new markets and implement measures to support entrepreneurs.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director of the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy and spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, noted that the Ministry anticipates continued expansion of Thai exports for the rest of 2025. This expectation follows successful negotiations that resulted in a reduction of US import tariffs from 36% to 19%, bringing them in line with regional competitors. This reduction is expected to ease concerns among Thai investors and exporters, enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.
Moreover, the Thai government is preparing to develop stringent origin verification mechanisms to ensure fair trade practices and implement relief measures for those affected by the tariff reductions. Concurrently, efforts are underway to expand into new export markets and create trade opportunities in potential regions.
Nonetheless, the Ministry of Commerce has issued a caution regarding several risk factors. These include the Thai-Cambodian border conflict, which has hindered some cross-border exports; importers’ existing inventory levels ahead of the new US tariffs; and the slowdown in the Chinese economy, which could impact future orders.
The performance of the Thai export market in the first seven months of 2025 has shown strong expansion, with notable growth in primary and secondary markets across multiple regions. The main market experienced a 15.3% expansion, driven by increases in the US, China, Japan, the European Union, ASEAN, and CLMV markets. The secondary market saw a 7.7% growth, with significant contributions from South Asia, Russia and CIS, the UK, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, although Australia and other markets contracted.
In response, the Ministry of Commerce is preparing a proactive policy to diversify trade risks, concentrating on three key areas: accelerating the opening of new markets in South Asia, Latin America, and Africa; promoting investment and building confidence among foreign investors; and providing comprehensive support to Thai exporters, including relief measures and enhancing competitiveness.