BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai Trade Representative Werapong Prapha has met with Swedish Ambassador to Thailand Anna Hammargren at Government House to strengthen bilateral economic, trade, and investment cooperation and discuss support for the Thailand–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The discussions emphasized the Thai Trade Representative’s role in linking government agencies, businesses, and stakeholders to identify opportunities and challenges and enhance Thailand’s business environment. The Swedish Ambassador also confirmed Sweden’s readiness to collaborate with other Nordic countries to support Thailand’s efforts to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Over 100 Swedish companies operate in Thailand, employing more than 19,500 Thai workers. The Thai side acknowledged Swedish business concerns about customs procedures and technical regulations, and highlighted ongoing regulatory reforms to improve the business climate and attract investment. With SMEs accounting for around 99.5% of Thai businesses, the Trade Representative emphasized the need for an FTA Fund and transitional finance mechanisms to help smaller firms upgrade production and meet changing international standards.
On global security, the Trade Representative noted Thailand’s commitment to balancing trade facilitation with international obligations. The Ministry of Commerce has introduced licensing for nuclear-related dual-use items and created a National Strategic Items Control List to comply with global non-proliferation standards. Sweden is Thailand’s second-largest Nordic trading partner. Bilateral trade reached 1,172.19 million U.S. dollars in 2025, with Thai exports totaling 447.19 million U.S. dollars. In the first half of 2026, two-way trade was 617.37 million U.S. dollars, reflecting ongoing growth in Thai exports of air conditioners, automotive parts, and rubber products. (NNT)
