Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the TNSC, said it is essential such cooperation be pursued on a balanced, transparent and sustainable basis, protecting Thailand’s trade interests, industrial competitiveness and long-term economic security, reports the Bangkok Post.
The TNSC stands ready to collaborate with the Commerce Ministry and relevant agencies to provide private sector input and technical support throughout the negotiation and implementation process.
He said the council views the framework as a step towards strengthening bilateral economic relations and enhancing Thailand’s role in global supply chains.
The TNSC has several recommendations for the government to ensure Thailand’s long-term trade and industrial competitiveness is safeguarded, said Mr Dhanakorn.
As Thailand maintains a trade surplus with the US, the TNSC is concerned it could expose Thai exporters to increased scrutiny or more US tariffs or trade remedies.
The council recommended the Thai government negotiate safeguard mechanisms within the framework, ensuring Thai exports are not unfairly penalised or subjected to unilateral US actions.
The TNSC is also concerned about balancing market access with domestic industrial stability.
Mr Dhanakorn said the proposed framework is expected to require substantial tariff reductions and the removal of non-tariff barriers for US goods entering the Thai market. While this can enhance bilateral trade, it may also exert competitive pressure on domestic industries.
The TNSC recommended Thailand adopt a phased liberalisation plan and identify sensitive sectors such as agriculture, automotive, and consumer goods to be granted transitional protection and adjustment support measures.
As Thailand opens up to more US products, it is vital to maintain fair access for Thai exports, he said.
The council urged the government to ensure any reciprocal tariff arrangements are genuinely balanced, that the US commits to reducing or eliminating barriers against Thai products, and that existing anti-dumping or safeguard mechanisms are not used in a discriminatory manner.
Mr Dhanakorn said the growing complexity of global supply chains increases the risk goods from third countries might be routed through Thailand, which could result in Thailand being accused of trade circumvention.
The TNSC recommended Thailand strengthen its rules of origin certification systems and cooperate closely with US authorities to prevent misuse, while also protecting legitimate Thai exporters from unnecessary administrative burdens.
He said implementation of the framework will require Thailand to align various standards, certifications, and regulatory procedures with US requirements.
The council also emphasised the government should invest in institutional readiness ‒ enhancing testing, certification and inspection capabilities ‒ to prevent trade disruptions and compliance risks for Thai exporters.
Given the uncertainties of global trade and economic volatility, Thailand must retain sufficient policy flexibility to protect key domestic sectors and respond to unexpected developments, said Mr Dhanakorn.
The TNSC recommends the agreement explicitly include review clauses, safeguard provisions, and transition periods to ensure Thailand can adjust its commitments if significant economic imbalances occur.