BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand is pursuing new trade and investment opportunities in Europe and the Middle East through a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union and a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates. The government is encouraging businesses to prepare for future market access while protecting domestic economic interests.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana reported today (Oct 9) that the tenth round of Thailand–EU FTA negotiations, held in Phuket from September 28 to October 6, made progress on food safety measures, energy, raw materials, and rules of origin. Discussions on market access, services, investment, and government procurement remain ongoing, with negotiations targeted for completion by the end of 2026.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun also met with UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi on September 23 to discuss the proposed CEPA and expanded investment cooperation. In 2025, the EU was Thailand’s fourth-largest trading partner, while the UAE ranked eighth globally and was its largest trading partner in the Middle East.
The government has urged exporters, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to review product standards, import requirements, production costs, and raw material origins. Lalida cautioned that neither agreement currently offers new tariff benefits, which will become available only after the relevant agreements officially enter into force. (NNT)
