SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul used an exclusive APEC leaders’ dinner hosted by President Lee Jae‑myung of South Korea to push for a renewed effort to strengthen trade relations with the United States. What began as a cordial exchange with former US President Donald Trump turned into a conversation that may carry lasting economic significance.
Building momentum for trade relief
According to Anutin, the discussion was open and constructive. Trump, he said, not only remembered their earlier encounter at the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, but expressed a clear willingness to engage personally in future trade talks.
“TRUMP REMEMBERED IMMEDIATELY,”
Anutin recalled, describing the tone of the meeting as remarkably friendly.
Following the dinner, Trump reportedly returned to emphasize that he would speak with the US Trade Representative (USTR) about a possible reduction in import tariffs — currently near 19 percent on Thai goods. Any easing of those duties would offer a significant lift to manufacturers of electronics, textiles, and food products, sectors that form a backbone of Thailand’s export economy.
“THIS WOULD BE A STRONG SIGNAL FOR OUR ECONOMY,”
Anutin said, outlining how lower tariffs could make Thai products more competitive in the American market.
Diplomacy beyond trade
The meeting extended beyond commerce. Anutin also thanked Trump for Washington’s support in the recent Thailand–Cambodia peace agreement, signed to promote stability and confidence between the two neighbours. Both sides reportedly expressed their commitment to ensure that the accord is implemented swiftly.
Thailand’s rising global profile
Anutin highlighted that Thailand’s position at the APEC leaders’ table reflected its growing international relevance. During the summit, leaders including Canada’s Prime Minister, China’s President Xi Jinping, and President Lee Jae‑myung held or requested bilateral talks with the Thai deputy premier — a sign, he said, that Thailand is increasingly seen as a reliable regional partner.
Investment interest from major firms
Economic cooperation featured prominently in Seoul. SK Bioscience, a major South Korean pharmaceutical company, announced plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thailand’s Government Pharmaceutical Organization (GPO). The partnership aims to begin domestic production of key vaccines, a move that could transform Thailand into a leading health and biotech hub in Asia.
A gesture of goodwill
Observers noted a personal touch at the end of the dinner when Trump placed his hand on Anutin’s shoulder — a symbolic gesture many interpreted as a mark of personal respect and goodwill. For Bangkok and Washington, it appeared to signal optimism that political familiarity could pave the way for renewed economic and diplomatic engagement.
• Current tariffs: around 19% on Thai imports to the US
• Potential impact: improved export competitiveness for Thai industries
• Regional dimension: strengthened peace and investment ties in Southeast Asia
The conversation may have been brief, but in a region balancing complex alliances, even a warm handshake can hint at new beginnings.