Supajee points out that the US should not link the Thai-Cambodian border issue to trade, and predicts that the tariff deal will not be finalized this year.

The Minister of Commerce stated that the United States should not link the Thai-Cambodian clashes to trade negotiations, and revealed that the Thai-U.S. tariff deal is unlikely to be finalized by 2568.

On December 11, 2568, Commerce Minister Supachie Suthamphan clarified the possibility that the United States might use the clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border to pressure Thai-US trade negotiations, emphasizing that it was a "separate issue." She stressed that the conflict was between Thailand and Cambodia, and that Thailand had a duty to protect its sovereignty and the safety of its people. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had already clarified that Thailand did not initiate the incident and that its actions were to prevent further losses.

Ms. Supajee stated that although many countries, including the United States, are aware of the facts, if the United States links the border issue to trade, that is its own decision. However, Thailand believes the two issues should be kept separate. She reiterated that Thailand acts in accordance with international principles and must ensure the safety of its citizens and military personnel.

"We can't control this, but the US shouldn't involve our issues with our neighbors in trade negotiations, as they are separate matters. We have done everything correctly according to principles, safeguarding our sovereignty, the safety of our people, and our military. We must help communicate that the US shouldn't interfere. We must support our military, but if the US decides to do so, there's nothing we can do," Ms. Supajee said.

Regarding the progress of trade negotiations, Ms. Supajee stated that Thailand remains open and ready to negotiate when the United States is ready, without concern if the negotiations do not conclude by 2568, as Thailand will still be subject to the 19% retaliatory tariff and will not suffer any further losses. At the same time, the delay allows Thailand to await the US Supreme Court's ruling on the president's authority to issue tariff orders, which may affect the direction of future negotiations.

If the court rules that the president exceeded his authority and the measure must be revoked, Thailand would not need to continue negotiations and might be able to request a refund of taxes previously paid. However, if the United States wins the case, Thailand would have to proceed with tax discussions as originally planned.

Source: InfoQuest News Agency

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