Today (November 17, 2025), Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, as Chairman of the Strategic Committee on Trade Negotiations with the United States, stated that the Thai side is still adhering to the original negotiation framework and roadmap, with a goal to conclude negotiations by the end of 2025.
According to information from the Thai side, the discussion between Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and U.S. President Donald Trump on November 15 was the most recent update and provided a positive signal that the U.S. would not link political issues to the trade negotiation process. It is expected that greater clarity on tariff matters will emerge by the end of this year.
Mr. Ekniti stated that this morning, an informal online meeting was held with “Team Thailand,” joined by Mrs. Suphajee Suthumpun, Minister of Commerce, currently on official duty in the United States, along with teams from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant agencies, to confirm that both sides recognize the continuity of the process and clarity of principles.
Regarding documents previously sent by the United States Trade Representative (USTR), Mr. Ekniti stated that those documents were likely prepared before the leaders’ meeting. The Thai side is now waiting for an official response from the U.S. President to be relayed to the USTR before evaluating the next steps. The Thai side is still proceeding according to the original framework, with no delays.
Meanwhile, Ms. Chotima Iemsawasdikul, Director General Department of Trade Negotiations, Ministry of Commerce, announced at Government House that Thailand has held continuous discussions with the U.S. regarding tariff and reciprocal trade negotiations.
The Director General noted that based on the most recent statements from both Mr. Anwar Ibrahim and the President of the United States, Thailand is confident that both sides share the same target—adhering to the original deadline to finalize details of the reciprocal trade agreement by the end of this year.
Ms. Chotima added that the Thai side continues to carry out its work, preparing for negotiations with the U.S. under the original framework, while also strengthening Thai entrepreneurs, enhancing product competitiveness in areas where Thailand has an advantage, and accelerating market expansion—both with existing partners and through the promotion of new FTAs—to meet the challenges of intensifying global trade and investment.
