BANGKOK, Thailand – Department of Trade Negotiations Director-General Chotima Iemsawasdikul announced that Thailand concluded and signed three free trade agreements (FTAs) over the past year, bringing the total to 17 with 24 trading partners. The new agreements with Sri Lanka, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and Bhutan are scheduled to be implemented initially in 2026.
She stated that Thailand is expediting negotiations on several key FTAs, including those with the European Union, South Korea, the ASEAN–Canada FTA, upgrades to the ASEAN–India Trade in Goods Agreement, and the Thailand–Peru FTA. Consultations with public and private stakeholders continue to ensure these agreements deliver maximum benefits.
Negotiations with the EU remain a top priority for the Ministry of Commerce. Seven rounds have been completed, and Thailand will host the eighth round from 2 to 6 February 2026. Eight of 24 chapters have been finalized, with progress in market access for goods, services, investment, and government procurement. Both parties aim to conclude negotiations in 2026.
The department is also prioritizing upgrades to the Thailand–Peru FTA and the ASEAN–India agreement, and aims to finalize the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) in 2026. This agreement is expected to be the world’s first regional digital economy framework, demonstrating readiness for digital transformation and investment.
Thailand is assessing potential FTAs with the GCC, SACU, Pacific Alliance, and MERCOSUR, and is preparing for negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States.
From January to October 2025, Thailand’s total global trade reached USD 568.75 billion, a 12.5 percent year-on-year increase. Trade with 18 FTA partner countries totaled USD 337.22 billion, up 12.9 percent from the same period in 2024, and accounted for 59.3 percent of Thailand’s total trade value.
Thailand’s main exports included gems and jewellery, computers and components, integrated circuits, rubber products, and various fruits. Major imports were electrical machinery and components, machinery and mechanical equipment, diamonds and gemstones, iron and steel products, and other metal ores and related products. (NNT)
