BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai chaired a special Cabinet meeting on Friday to urgently address two pressing matters: endorsing the joint Thai–U.S. statement on the newly announced 19% reciprocal import tariff, and approving emergency relief funding for those affected by the Thai–Cambodian border situation.
Government Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsab said the meeting, held at Government House and via electronic channels, aimed to ensure Thailand remains competitive following the U.S. tariff announcement, which matches rates imposed on several other countries in the region.
Phumtham confirmed that the United States officially notified Thailand this morning that a 19% tariff would be applied to Thai exports—significantly lower than the previously proposed 36%. He called the rate a positive development and emphasized that it allows Thai exports to remain competitive. He also noted that finalizing the joint Thai–U.S. statement required Cabinet approval before Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira could officially sign and release the document.
In addition to the tariff matter, the Cabinet approved the urgent allocation of emergency funds to support both government personnel and civilians affected by the recent border clashes with Cambodia. The National Security Council (NSC) will serve as lead agency, coordinating with the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Ministry of Finance, Budget Bureau, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, Royal Thai Police, and the Prime Minister’s Office to establish guidelines for fund disbursement under the 2016 Emergency and Necessity Relief Act.
Jirayu emphasized the necessity of the special session, saying it was essential to act swiftly rather than waiting for the next regular Cabinet meeting scheduled for Tuesday. (TNA)
