Bangkok: Demanding clarity, Wirote Lakkhanaadisorn has pressed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Pichai Chunhavajira to confirm whether the United States has postponed the deadline for raising tariffs on Thailand. Wirote likened the situation to a boxing match where a missed right hook results in a counterattack, emphasizing that the initial collapse of the deal was not unforeseen, as it highlighted existing challenges.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wirote, a party-list MP from the Prachachon Party, discussed the recent trade negotiations led by Mr. Pichai with the United States, which failed to yield a conclusive agreement. Acknowledging the complexity of the first round of negotiations, Wirote expressed understanding that multiple rounds might be necessary. The looming deadline set by the United States is July 8, corresponding to July 9 for Thailand. However, Mr. Pichai has not clarified if this deadline has been extended. Without an extension, Thailand could face a 36% retaliatory tariff, raising concerns about the impact on the export and manufacturing sectors, particularly on factories employing large numbers of workers. Mr. Pichai has pledged to intensify his efforts upon returning, but Wirote insists on receiving a definitive answer regarding the deadline status.

Addressing the perceived failure of the negotiations, Mr. Wirote remarked that such an outcome was anticipated, given the significance of the issues at hand. The first negotiation served to identify the US’s objections to Thailand’s proposals, necessitating further preparation and expedited discussions. Wirote metaphorically compared the situation to boxing, where an anticipated right hook was missed, resulting in a counterattack and a crucial moment for recovery and continuation of the negotiations.