BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai Minister of Commerce Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan met with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, H.E. Mr. Maroš Šefčovič, on the sidelines of the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting in Paris to discuss progress on the Thailand–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The meeting focused on advancing the FTA negotiations and reaffirmed both sides’ shared goal of concluding the agreement by the end of 2025.
Mr. Pichai noted that the talks are progressing positively, with four chapters already concluded: transparency, regulatory practices, customs and trade facilitation, and sustainable food systems. He emphasized Thailand’s strong commitment to working closely with the EU to achieve fair and balanced outcomes on the remaining chapters in a timely manner.
He reiterated that finalizing the FTA is a top priority for Thailand, describing the EU as one of the country’s most significant economic and strategic partners. Mr. Pichai expressed confidence that a completed agreement would substantially boost trade and investment flows between the two sides while helping mitigate the impact of ongoing global geopolitical uncertainties.
The minister also stressed the importance of raising awareness among Thai businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), about the benefits of the FTA. Supporting SMEs in accessing international markets, he said, is essential for strengthening Thailand’s long-term economic resilience.
In 2024, the EU was Thailand’s fourth-largest trading partner, following China, the United States, and Japan. Thailand’s major exports to the EU included computers and components, gems and jewelry, air conditioners, rubber products, and automobiles and parts. Key EU exports to Thailand comprised machinery, pharmaceuticals, aircraft and aviation equipment, chemicals, and electrical machinery.
