Thai Chamber of Commerce urges PM to tackle U.S. trade, explore new markets, and manage baht

BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai Chamber of Commerce has proposed seven measures to revive Thailand’s economy, calling for urgent action on U.S. trade negotiations, addressing non-tariff trade barriers, expanding into high-potential regional markets, and keeping the baht within 34–35 per U.S. dollar to protect export competitiveness.

Dr. Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, outlined the “7 Pillars for Economic Recovery”:

1. Rebuild Confidence Plan – Strengthen investor and public confidence across economic, social, and safety sectors.
2. Liquidity for SMEs & Households – Improve access to financial resources.
3. Ease Cost of Living – Reduce household and business costs.
4. Seamless & Fair Trade – Promote fair trade, investment, logistics, and SME competitiveness.
5. Safety & Security – Enhance public safety, crime, drug prevention, and online security.
6. Trade War Response – Mitigate impacts from global trade disputes and currency fluctuations.
7. Boost Demand & Tourism – Stimulate consumption and tourism revenue.

For the short term, the chamber recommends prioritizing U.S. trade negotiations under reciprocal tariff frameworks, resolving non-tariff barriers, and expanding markets in China, Africa, and the Middle East. The Bank of Thailand should manage the baht proactively to maintain export advantages.

Additional measures include stimulating household consumption through programs like Khon La Khrueng (co-pay) and Easy E-Receipt, supporting SMEs, speeding up budget disbursement, establishing comprehensive tourist service centers, and addressing labor shortages and social issues.


The mid-term (8-month) plan calls for faster VAT and export duty refunds, skills development aligned with high-potential sectors, debt restructuring, and regulatory streamlining to ease business operations.

Dr. Poj stressed that these proposals aim at sustainable economic recovery, and with cooperation from government, private sector, and citizens, Thailand can regain strength and create new opportunities. (TNA)