Thailand is expanding its free trade agreements (FTAs) to boost exports and strengthen its competitive edge in global markets. The government reports that exports under existing FTAs have grown, with new trade deals in progress to enhance economic ties.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachun stated that in the past year, Thailand’s export value under FTA privileges reached $83.29 billion, or approximately 2.83 trillion baht, reflecting a 2.05% increase from the previous year. The FTA utilization rate stood at 83.81% of the total eligible exports. The ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement saw the highest usage at $31.44 billion, followed by the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement at $22.58 billion and the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement at $6.73 billion.
Agricultural and processed agricultural goods accounted for $23.03 billion, representing 27.65% of FTA exports, while industrial products made up $60.25 billion, or 72.35%. The leading export items under FTAs included diesel transport vehicles, fresh durians, synthetic rubber, automated machinery, and processed chicken meat. Among high-growth products, automatic washing machines recorded a 51.8% increase in exports, benefiting from seven different FTAs. Major markets for these goods were ASEAN, South Korea, and India.
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to expand trade partnerships by addressing regulatory challenges and advancing negotiations. Three new FTAs are expected to be finalized this year. The Thailand-Sri Lanka FTA is anticipated to take effect later in the year, while the Thailand-EFTA agreement—covering Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein—is projected for next year. The Thailand-Bhutan FTA, concluded on February 20, is scheduled for signing in April.
Officials noted that these agreements are part of Thailand’s broader strategy to strengthen trade relations and increase access to key international markets.
