Bangkok: The House of Representatives has engaged in discussions focusing on the impact of tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, a Member of Parliament and Leader of the Prachachon Party, proposed five key points urging the government to adopt a proactive stance in addressing these economic challenges.
According to Thai News Agency, the urgent motion was raised in a meeting chaired by House Speaker Wan Muhammad Noor Matha. Natthaphong, along with several other MPs, emphasized the need for the government to seriously consider the potential impacts of the Thailand-US Reciprocal Tariff Agreement. The MPs stressed that these discussions and proposals should be swiftly forwarded to the Cabinet for further action.
Natthaphong highlighted that while the negotiations slated for August 1st may not lead to worst-case outcomes, it is crucial for the public to be informed about the government’s negotiation strategies. He pointed out that August 1st represents a significant turning point in Thai economic history, urging the government to disclose the specifics of their negotiation efforts to prepare the public adequately.
During the discussions, Natthaphong also addressed concerns about the high tariff barriers set by the U.S., which could reach up to 36 percent. He emphasized the importance of understanding the potential impacts on various sectors, such as tire and auto parts industries, electrical appliances, electronic equipment, and textiles. He called for comprehensive assessments to identify the sectors most vulnerable to these economic changes and to develop mitigation strategies.
Natthaphong further questioned the government’s lack of clarity on the trade-offs involved in the tariff negotiations. He expressed concerns about the potential disadvantages faced by Thai farmers, urging the government to provide clear guidance and support to those affected by these economic shifts.
In addition to his critiques, Natthaphong proposed five proactive measures for the government to consider in its international dealings. These include shifting Thailand’s role in regional trade negotiations, creating a favorable investment environment, engaging in constructive negotiations with major powers, raising Thailand’s standards to align with developed nations, and fostering cooperation with developing countries, particularly within ASEAN.
Natthaphong also highlighted inadequacies in the 2026 fiscal budget regarding preparations for dealing with U.S. tariffs. He pointed out the lack of clear projects or plans aimed at mitigating the impacts of these tariffs, and the insufficient budget allocated for addressing these challenges. He urged the establishment of a public-private sector group to monitor the situation and ensure transparency in the government’s negotiation processes.
The discussions in the House of Representatives underscore the urgent need for strategic and proactive measures to safeguard Thailand’s economic interests in the face of international tariff challenges.