Thailand aims to initiate broader economic discussions with the United States that go beyond tariff issues, proposing a shared vision for long-term cooperation, according to a senior Thai government advisor on 12 May 2025.
Thailand is seeking to expand economic dialogue with the United States beyond the current scope of trade and tariffs, proposing a partnership to build a shared economic future. The proposal includes positioning Thailand as a neutral venue for conflict resolution, according to Pansak Vinyaratn, chief policy advisor to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Pansak, who has served in advisory roles across several Thai administrations, said that the evolving political landscape in the US, particularly during the presidential election cycle, has implications for Thai-US trade policy. He cited his reading of Hillbilly Elegy by US Vice President JD Vance as a lens through which to understand the social and economic shifts influencing US trade priorities.
Rather than pursuing a purely transactional approach to trade, Pansak emphasized the importance of offering value that reflects empathy for the challenges faced by American citizens. He suggested that Thailand could contribute by importing American-made goods and integrating them into its tourism sector—for instance, by offering US products as souvenirs or using high-quality American meat in Thai cuisine.
He also pointed to the potential of Bangkok becoming a hub for premium culinary tourism, akin to Tokyo, leveraging imported US ingredients to elevate Thai gastronomy. Thai food, he noted, is particularly resistant to imitation, due to its distinctive taste and preparation methods.
Addressing specific trade issues, Pansak criticized the current 50 percent tariff on US apple imports as excessive and unnecessary for all product categories. He suggested a more flexible and cooperative approach to trade policy.
In his broader assessment, Pansak expressed concern over the impact of economic hardship in the US, arguing that instability in a global superpower can have far-reaching effects. He underlined the importance of fostering a stable and forward-looking US that can continue to play a constructive role on the world stage.
In recent discussions, Pansak drew on his experience as an advisor to former Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan and other administrations. His remarks were made in the context of Thailand’s strategic efforts to engage with global partners during a period of shifting geopolitical and economic dynamics.
