Thailand is working toward completing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) by the end of 2025, as it seeks to strengthen economic security and expand trade opportunities, according to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan.
The EU is Thailand’s fourth-largest trading partner, and both sides view the agreement as essential for ensuring economic resilience in a shifting global trade landscape. Negotiations resumed in 2023 after a prior suspension, with the upcoming fifth round of talks scheduled for late March.
Minister Pichai emphasized that the Thai-EU FTA would not only enhance trade but also boost the country’s economic competitiveness. With exports accounting for approximately 60% of Thailand’s GDP, expanding trade partnerships remains a key priority.
Thailand recently signed an FTA with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)—a bloc consisting of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—and is actively negotiating trade agreements with the United Arab Emirates, Bhutan, Turkey, and Pakistan.
The government aims to accelerate discussions with the EU to reach a final agreement by Christmas, positioning Thailand for greater economic integration and stability.
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