BANGKOK, Thailand – The Export-Import Bank of Thailand (EXIM Bank) has announced a comprehensive set of five support measures aimed at helping Thai exporters, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), cope with the potential impact of the United States’ proposed Reciprocal Tariffs policy. These measures reflect the government’s strategic direction to safeguard Thai businesses from global trade disruptions and to maintain export competitiveness.
Bundit Saphianchai, Director and Acting President of EXIM Bank, stated that the bank has developed the support package in response to concerns over the United States’ planned implementation of reciprocal tariffs. The policy could pose risks to Thai exporters by subjecting them to increased import duties, which would impact pricing and demand in the U.S. market — Thailand’s largest export destination outside Asia.
In 2024, Thailand exported goods worth USD 300.53 billion, with 18% of that — or around USD 54.96 billion — going to the U.S. According to the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP), an estimated 3,700 Thai SMEs are expected to be directly affected, involving approximately USD 7.63 billion in exports.
To address these risks, EXIM Bank has introduced the following five strategic measures:
Establishment of an Export Clinic:
The Export Clinic will serve as a consultation and support hub for affected importers and exporters. It will offer financial relief such as debt restructuring with repayment extensions of up to 365 days, liquidity enhancement tools, and interest rate reductions to ease operational burdens.
Policy Advisory and Business Guidance:
EXIM Bank will provide up-to-date information and analysis on the U.S. tariff policies and their potential consequences. Through its official communication channels, the bank will offer consultations to help businesses adjust and plan their strategies accordingly.
Expanding Market Access and Export Coverage:
Partnering with the Ministry of Commerce and related agencies, EXIM Bank is helping businesses—especially SMEs—diversify into new high-potential markets. This includes offering loans for international trade fairs and export promotion activities. Additionally, exporters can access trade credit insurance covering up to 75% of losses if overseas buyers fail to pay.
Support for Imports from the U.S.:
The bank will ensure that policies related to U.S. imports align with government strategies and do not negatively impact local Thai producers.
Promoting Thai Investment in the U.S.:
EXIM Bank is also exploring collaborative frameworks with government agencies to support Thai businesses in expanding or establishing investment ventures in the U.S. as part of long-term strategic development.
Bundit emphasized that EXIM Bank, under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance, remains committed to supporting Thai businesses involved in international trade and investment. The bank aims to ensure business continuity amid global economic uncertainty and shifting trade policies.
For more information, interested parties can contact the EXIM Contact Center at 0 2169 9999 or via the official EXIM Bank Facebook page. (TNA)
