{"version":"https:\/\/jsonfeed.org\/version\/1","title":"JTC","home_page_url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th","feed_url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th\/en\/content\/categories\/index\/id\/1989","items":[{"id":"10403ac7128b01a43a545da8d9c1eb08","title":"Building trade relations with countries in Southeast Asia","content_text":"

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Lao People’s Democratic Republic<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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The Meeting between the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Keerati Rushchano) and the Minister of Industry and Trade of the Lao PDR (H.E. Mr. Malaithong Kommasith) on 9 March 2023 at the Ministry of Commerce. Both sides discussed ways to promote cooperation in order to push two-way bilateral trade to achieve its target. Both sides also exchanged trade operations practices in the missions of the Ministry of Commerce, such as price management of goods, import-export management, trade facilitation, and export promotion. On this occasion, Thailand pushed forward the issue of border trade by requesting the Lao PDR to urge the relevant department to help expedite the opening of the remaining 12 border checkpoints with Thailand, as well as to facilitate the transport of Thai goods across Lao PDR’s borders into China, particularly the transportation of fruit products during the season when a lot of produce goes to the market.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Malaysia<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span>The secretary-general of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living of Malaysia (Datuk Azman bin Mohd Yusof) and the delegation met with the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum), Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade (Second Lieutenant Chakra Yodmanee) and Deputy Director-General of the Department of Business Development (Mr. Kamhaeng Klasukon) on 14 July 2023 at the Ministry of Commerce. The meeting took place with main outcomes as follows:  The two sides exchanged information on the situation of the franchise business and discussed ways to promote cooperation in franchising between each other, such as to encourage franchise entrepreneurs to participate in trade fairs organised by each country. Malaysia also asked Thailand to exchange information related to costs of production and raw materials to be exported from Thailand so that the government can manage and set the prices of products being distributed in Malaysia to be appropriate and fair to both Thai producers and consumers. Both sides also exchanged operational information to maintain product price stability in accordance with the Price of Goods and Services Act B.E. 2542 (1999). The Department of Internal Trade will coordinate details with Malaysia on this issue.<\/span>
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Singapore<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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The 6th Singapore-Thailand Enhanced Economic Relationship (STEER) Meeting at the Senior Officials’ Level <\/span><\/strong><\/span>on 26 August 2022 at Anantara Siam Hotel, Bangkok. The meeting was chaired by the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Senior Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania Division, Ministry of Trade & Industry of Singapore (Mr. Ho Chee Hin). The key points of discussion are as follows
\r\n  <\/span>   • On agriculture, <\/strong><\/span>Singapore has revised the registration rules for the export of chicken meat and eggs from Thailand to be more flexible. Subsequently, there is now a growing number of Thai chicken and egg producers who are licensed to export to Singapore. Singapore will expedite the permission for Thai organic chicken farms and quail egg farms to be able to export more to Singapore as soon as possible. Singapore also expressed an interest in furthering the cooperation on research and development in the field of agri-food with Thailand
\r\n    <\/span> • On investment,<\/strong><\/span> Thailand invited Singapore to invest in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), especially in the aircraft maintenance sector where Thailand has already allowed foreigners to hold 100% of equity, as well as in the development of the Aviation Technical Zone (ATZ) and the development project on 5G Internet infrastructure in the EEC
\r\n   <\/span>  • On intellectual property, <\/strong><\/span>both sides will accelerate the development of the new memorandum of cooperation and the work plan on intellectual property<\/span>
\r\n     • On digital economy, <\/strong><\/span>both sides discussed ways to cooperate on issues such as cross-border data movement and online consumer protection to facilitate cross-border trade, as well as exchanging policies to promote start-up businesses between the two countries
\r\n <\/span>    • On tourism, <\/span><\/strong>Singapore expressed interest in deepening the cruise tourism cooperation with Thailand by proposing the establishment of a working group.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nDeputy Minister of Commerce and High-Level Executives' Visit to the Republic of Singapore<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>between 26-28 September 2022. Deputy Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Sinit Lertkrai) led a delegation of high-level executives from the Ministry of Commerce to visit the Republic of Singapore to discuss cooperation with executives from government agencies and the private sector of Singapore on promoting the utilization of trade privileges under the FTA to increase exports of Thai agricultural products to the Singapore market and on the development SMEs’ capability in the new trade era.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nThe 6th Singapore-Thailand Enhanced Economic Relationship (STEER) Ministerial Meeting <\/span><\/strong><\/span>on 12 October 2022 at Siam Kempinski Hotel, Bangkok. The meeting took place to expedite discussions and strengthen economic cooperation in areas that both sides were interested in, such as agriculture and innovative agriculture, digital economy, investment, tourism, and intellectual property. The main outcomes of the meeting were as follows: 
\r\n     1) Singapore agreed to work closely with Thailand on the registration of Thai farms producing organic chicken and quail egg to be exported to Singapore; 
\r\n     2) Thailand and Singapore agreed to work together to protect the interests of consumers who purchase and sell goods and services through online platforms. Both sides will exchange the relevant information in the future; 
\r\n     3) Singapore indicated her willingness to participate in trade fairs organised by Thailand and will publicise the events to Singapore businessmen and the private sector to take part; 
\r\n     4) Singapore indicated her willingness to discuss cooperation with Thailand on the exchange of electronic trade documents between each other; and 
\r\n     5) Thailand and Singapore agreed to expedite the establishment of a joint working group to develop cruise tourism, which will benefit tourism and investment for both sides.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Vietnam<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>The 4th Meeting of the Thai-Vietnam Joint Trade Committee (JTC) and Other Related Activities <\/span><\/strong><\/span>on 20 April 2022 at Anantara Siam Hotel, Bangkok. The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and Minister of Industry and Trade of Vietnam (H.E. Mr. Nguyen Hong Dien). Both sides discussed and jointly determined the direction of the trade and investment relationship between Thailand and Viet Nam, as well as on economic cooperation that will be mutually beneficial for both sides. Key points of discussion can be summarized as follows:
\r\n     1) The cooperation to promote bilateral trade and facilitating exports and imports between the two countries
\r\n     2) Investment cooperation and other areas of economic cooperation, such as promoting investment in mutually beneficial sectors including food, automobiles, energy, textiles and clothing, and chemicals, development of various basic infrastructure, promote cooperation under the Memorandum of Understanding on Intellectual Property between Thailand and Vietnam, and the protection of Geographical Indication (GI) goods between both sides, and promoting cooperation and mutual support in the sub-regional, regional, and multilateral forums of which both parties are members. This includes the effective implementation of the RCEP agreement, as well as Thailand's APEC chairmanship in 2022
\r\n     3) The Department of International Trade Promotion organized an online business matching event on the side of the 4th Thailand-Vietnam JTC meeting, where 12 Vietnamese entrepreneurs participated in trade negotiations with 31 exporters from Thailand. There was a total of 47 negotiation pairs that were expected to create an order value of 71 million baht on targeted products, such as automotive parts, food, health and beauty products, and so forth.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nThe Meeting between the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (H.E. Mr. Do Thang Hai) and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 16 August 2023 at Central World, Bangkok. The meeting took place with the following key outcomes: The two sides discussed trade relations between Thailand and Vietnam. The Ministers noted that The Thai and Vietnamese economies are more interconnected, especially on goods that both sides are involved in the global supply chain network, namely electronic products, iron and steel, shoes, and leather goods. The Ministers also discussed ways to promote cooperation in trade and investment between both sides to achieve the trade goal of 25 billion US dollars in 2025. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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------------------------------------------------------------------<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th\/en\/content\/categories\/detail\/id\/1989\/iid\/13170","date_published":"2024-07-01T17:35:00"},{"id":"4d9781acb1b800934940ed330b898378","title":"Building Trade Relations with Partner Countries in Asia and the Middle East (Excluding Southeast Asia)","content_text":"

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Bhutan<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span>The 4th Thailand-Bhutan Joint Trade Committee (JTC) Meeting (Ministerial Level)<\/span><\/strong><\/span> on 28 April 2022. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and Bhutan’s Minister of Economic Affairs (H.E. Mr. Loknath Sharma) at Dusit Thani Laguna, Phuket. Both sides had a discussion to jointly determine the direction of the trade and investment relationship between Thailand and Bhutan, as well as economic cooperation that will be mutually beneficial for both sides. Key points of discussion are summarized as follows:
\r\n     1) Thailand and Bhutan set a new trade target of USD 120 million, or 3,600 million baht, by 2025.
\r\n     2) To promote trade and investment between the two sides, Thailand invited businesspersons and entrepreneurs from Bhutan to attend both offline and online trade shows that Thailand will organize, such as The Marche by STYLE Bangkok, which focused on fashion and the THAIFEX-ANUGA Asia 2022, as well as the information on business matching activities between businesspersons from Thailand and Bhutan that the Ministry of Commerce will organize between June and July 2022.
\r\n     3) Economic cooperation between Thailand and Bhutan, including:
\r\n  <\/span>   • agriculture <\/strong><\/span>where Bhutan expressed the interest to exports three important produces to Thailand, which are apples, oranges, and potatoes. On this matter, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives was still preparing the results of the assessment of pest-free analysis Meanwhile, Thailand requested Bhutan to support the export of Thai herbs and traditional medicines in the registration process, market opening, and import facilitation. This will create a new target for export and can be considered as opening a new market for Thai herbs and Traditional Thai Medicine.
\r\n    <\/span> • handicrafts, <\/strong><\/span>Thailand and Bhutan agreed to extend their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on handicrafts for another 5 years from the expiration date. This will help to promote handicrafts and products made by local communities in both countries on both production and trade.
\r\n <\/span>    • On tourism, <\/strong><\/span>Thailand and Bhutan agreed to renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tourism. The Thai side proposed to add an additional agency, namely the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization), or DASTA, and the signing will be between the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) and the Tourism Council of Bhutan, which will focus on the joint creation of the package tours and the emphasis on arts and culture, as well as the way of life in both food and handicrafts, in order to attract tourists from around the world to the two countries.
\r\n     4) Discussed the possibility of having a Thailand-Bhutan preferential trade agreement (PTA), which both sides agreed to initiate a discussion on having the PTA.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nDiscussion between the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Ambassador of Bhutan to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Kinsan Dorji)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 18 October 2022 at the Ministry of Commerce. The meeting took place to follow up on the progress work in accordance with the outcomes of the 4th Thailand-Bhutan Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting (Ministerial level). Both sides also discussed ways to promote trade and investment between the two countries. The outcomes of the discussion were as follows: Development of a free trade agreement (FTA) or a preferential trade agreement (PTA) between Thailand and Bhutan. At the 4th Thailand-Bhutan JTC meeting in Phuket, the two Ministers agreed to initiate the discussion and study the possibility of having a PTA between each other. Nevertheless, Thailand must undergo an internal process before announcing the launch of PTA negotiations. Results from the study will be submitted alongside the proposal to get approval on the negotiation framework from the Cabinet. In the meantime, both sides could begin the exploratory discussion.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nThe Exploratory Discussion on the Development of the Thailand-Bhutan PTA and Related Activities<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 21 - 22 November 2022 in the Kingdom of Bhutan. The meeting was held to develop a preferential trade agreement (PTA) between Thailand and Bhutan, as well as related activities. The main outcomes of the meeting were as follows: During the exploratory discussion to develop the Thailand-Bhutan (PTA), both sides exchanged information on the economic and trade situation, the advancement of trade policies, internal procedures and processes for developing PTA, and the expectations for developing PTA between the two sides.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>The 2nd Meeting of Thailand-China Sub-Committee on Trade and Investment (via video conference) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 24 August 2022. The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Sinit Lertkrai) together with the Assistant Minister of Commerce of China (Mr. Li Fei). Key points of discussion can be summarized as follows:
\r\n     1) The development of a new Joint Action Plan under the Five-Year Development Plan on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Thailand and China
\r\n     2) Setting trade goals for Thailand and China in the next 5 years and support the organization of promotional activities in China to increase trade value between the two sides
\r\n     3) Thailand invited China to invest in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), especially in the new target industries in the EEC;
\r\n     4) Thailand requested China to accelerate the purchase of rice and rubber from Thailand in accordance with the contract of sale of agricultural products under the Memorandum of Understanding between Thailand and China for Cooperation on Agricultural Products Trade. The Chinese side indicated the readiness to coordinate with the relevant agencies to resolve the problem as soon as possible;
\r\n     5) Thailand requested China to consider opening the market for Thai agricultural products to China, including bird's nests, live cattle, passion fruit, dates, and Salak, as well as facilitating the transportation of Thai agricultural products to China, especially fruit products such as durian, longan and mangosteen. In addition, China was also asked to consider relaxing the requirements and regulations under the Chinese National Customs Office on the import-export of food and chemical fertilizer products. China indicated the willingness to solve the problems and stands ready to coordinate with relevant agencies from Thailand.
\r\n     6) Thailand expressed an interest to participate in China's space exploration programme, as well as to promote the utilization of China's BeiDou Navigation Satellite System. China indicated the willingness to cooperate with Thailand in the mentioned areas.
\r\n     7) Both sides agreed to discuss ways to revitalize tourism after the COVID-19 situation, particularly the consideration of measures related to tourism to build confidence in the safety and public health standards of the Thai tourism industry for both parties.
\r\n     8) Promoted cooperation between Thailand and Chinese local governments and on enhancing cooperation and utilization of various benefits under free trade agreements, especially the RCEP and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA).<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nThe 5th Bangkok-Shanghai Economic Conference (via video conference) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 18 August 2022. The Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) attended the conference which was organized by the Royal Thai Consulate-General, Shanghai, and the Shanghai Foreign Investment Development Board. The Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations presented information under the topic “Emerging Trade and Investment Opportunities Arising from RCEP, Perspectives from Policy Makers” and emphasised the importance of China as Thailand’s major trade partner, as well as provided information on the mission and role of the Department of Trade Negotiations on promoting trade and to increase trade value with China through the utilization of free trade agreements that Thailand and China are members, which currently are:
\r\n     1) the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA).
\r\n     2) the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP).
\r\nThese agreements provide options for entrepreneurs to make the most of the tariff privileges and the more flexible rules of origin. In addition, importance was also placed on the promotion of tangible economic cooperation between Thailand and the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), the cooperation to recover strongly from COVID-19, and the reinforcement of Thailand-China economic relations through the work of the seven Thai Trade Centers under the Ministry of Commerce.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>Discussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (H.E. Mr. Edward Yau)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/span>on 19 May 2022 at the Centara Grand at Central World. The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Boonyarit Kalayanamit), the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum), and executives of the Ministry of Commerce were also in attendance. The Thai side proposed 4 issues including:
\r\n     1) Promoting exports of Thai products, including rice, plant base meat, and fruits.
\r\n     2) Promoting cooperation on digital content and film production.
\r\n     3) Promoting investment from Hong Kong in wellness and ageing care services.
\r\n     4) Requested Hong Kong’s support on the Joint Statement of APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade and indicated the support for Hong Kong’s application to become a member of the RCEP agreement. In this regard, the Hong Kong side welcomed to support all of Thailand’s proposals, especially on the importation of Thai products, since Hong Kong consumers prefer premium food products, and the cooperation on film production.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>The 13th Thailand-India Joint Trade Committee (JTC) Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>from 19 – 21 April 2023 in New Delhi, Republic of India. The meeting took place with the main outcomes as follows: The Meeting discussed various issues, such as solving the problem of import restriction measure, market access for agricultural goods and livestock, the signing and electronic stamping of the certificate of origin, acceptance of product standards, and economic cooperation (filmmaking and medical tourism). In addition, the main reason that the JTC had not met for a long time was that both countries entered into negotiations on the Thai-India FTA and the ASEAN-India FTA In 2020. The two sides exchanged opinions on reviving the JTC meeting as a mechanism to discuss ways to promote trade and investment and to resolve trade barriers. as well as pushing for economic cooperation between each other.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>Discussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan (Mr. Hagiuda Koichi) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 21 May 2022 at Centara Grand at Central World. Key points of discussion can be summarized as follows:
\r\n     1) The initiative on Asia-Japan Investing for the Future (AJIF) is a new investment policy of Japan, which places Thailand as one of the key investment destinations in Asia. The emphasis is on co-creation to achieve sustainable economic and social growth through innovation. Thailand is recognised as one of the target countries in Asia that Japan wants to invest. The Thai side expressed appreciation to Japan for the AJIF policy, in which Japan provided funding for Japanese companies to cooperate with Thai companies in implementing projects related to digital innovation. Thailand also indicated the desire for Japan to make further investments in the country.
\r\n     2) On the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Thailand thanked Japan for supporting the RCEP negotiations during Thailand's chairmanship of the Preparatory Ministerial Meeting on the RCEP agreement in 2019 that led to a successful negotiation of the RCEP agreement. The two countries agreed to increase the utilize the benefits of RCEP to further increase two-way trade value within the region.
\r\n     3) On the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), Japan expressed its appreciation that Thailand has expressed the intention to join in with the statement on IPEF and hoped to have further cooperation to strengthen and sustain the IPEF.
\r\n     4) On the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting for 2022, Thailand sought Japan's support for the adoption of the 2002 APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Statement.
\r\n     5) On other issues, Japan has emphasized the support for Japanese enterprises operating in Thailand. Especially on the importance of human resources development.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\nBilateral Discussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry of Japan (H.E. Mr. Nishimura Yasutoshi)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/span>on the side of the 33rd APEC Ministerial Meeting (AMM) on 16 November 2022 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The discussion took place with the following main outcomes: Thailand requested Japan to cooperate on developing the capabilities of the Thai agricultural sector using innovation and digital technology. At present, the Thai agricultural sector exports approximately 3,000 tonnes of fresh bananas to Japan per year, which does not fill the quota of 8,000 tonnes per year, as allocated by Japan under the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA). Therefore, Thailand proposed a pilot project to help Thayang Agricultural Cooperative Limited from Phetchaburi to increase production efficiency and export volumes to the Japanese market. A request was made to the Japanese government to help coordinate with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in finding a Japanese private sector entity to assist Thayang Agricultural Cooperative Limited in developing a technology system or a platform to store data on banana planting and harvesting more systematically and accurately. In addition, Thailand also asked Japan to support the bid to host the Special Expo in 2028 in Phuket.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\n<\/span>Commercial Attaché from the Embassy of Japan in Thailand (Mr. Sano Shotaro) met with the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 8 June 2023. The outcomes from the meeting were as follows: The two sides discussed Thailand’s current free trade agreements and those in which Thailand was taking part in negotiating for both free trade agreements and international economic cooperation. The Meeting also noted Thailand’s political situation and economic, trade, and investment policies. The aim was to increase trade opportunities and to develop the existing trade agreements between Thailand and Japan to be more efficient.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Meeting to discuss the possibility of launching the negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Thailand and the Republic of Korea<\/span> <\/span><\/strong>between the Director-General of the Department of Free Trade Area Policy, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) (Mr. Ahn Chang-yong) and Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) between 23-26 August 2023 in the Republic of Korea, The meeting took place with the following key outcomes: The two sides discussed the possibility of having an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Thailand and the Republic of Korea in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Both sides also exchanged views and expectations on the development of an EPA in the future. Thailand viewed that this EPA will help to further open up the market for trade in goods, services, and investment beyond the existing FTA, especially for important Thai products for which the Republic of Korea has not yet eliminated tariffs, such as frozen and processed chicken meat, frozen and processed seafood, etc.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>The 4th Meeting of Joint Working Group on Cross-Border Economic Cooperation (JWG-CBEC) Under Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Framework (Via Videoconference)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/span>on 19 October 2022. The Meeting discussed an important issue, namely the preparation of a five-year plan of action (2023-2027) for cross-border economic cooperation under the Mekong-Lancang framework. The discussion also included cooperation in the field of cross-border economics. The Meeting agreed that the development of cooperation in the field of cross-border economics contributes greatly to the growth of trade and investment between the member states and attached great importance to the development of special economic zones along the border. This will promote connectivity between member states in the Mekong-Lancang subregion. The member states expressed their gratitude to China for providing budgetary support under the Mekong-Lancang Special Fund (MLC Special Fund) to implement member states’ projects.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>
\r\nThe Drafting Session for the Five-year Plan of Action (2023 - 2027) on Cross-border Economic Cooperation Under the Mekong-Lancang cooperation framework via videoconference<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 10 November 2022. The meeting took place with the following main outcomes: The 4th Meeting of Joint Working Group on Cross-Border Economic Cooperation (JWG-CBEC) Under Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Framework on 19 October 2022 discussed an important issue, which is the development of a draft plan of action over five years (2023-2027) for cross-border economic cooperation under the Mekong-Lancang cooperation framework. However, the Meeting couldn’t reach a conclusion at that time. 2) China later proposed to hold a drafting session on the five-year plan of action on 10 November 2022 via videoconference among the Mekong-Lancang member states to try to reach a conclusion. During the drafting session to develop the five-year plan of action, most member states adopted a flexible stance to push for a quick conclusion. The Meeting was able to accept proposed amendments\/additions from Thai agencies on various issues, such as the overall picture of the trade plan for agricultural products, facilitation of trade of industrial goods, and cross-border economic development. This allowed the Mekong-Lancang member states to reach a conclusion on the draft 5-year plan of action at the said meeting.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
<\/span>Mongolia<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Joint Trade Committee<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/span>between the Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia <\/span>and the 1st Meeting of Thailand-Mongolia Joint Trade Committee<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/span>on 5 September 2022, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) travelled to Mongolia to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Joint Trade Committee between the Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia and Co-Chaired with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia (H.E. Ms. Battsetseg Batmunkh) at the 1st Thailand-Mongolia JTC Meeting in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Important issues discussed at the meeting were:
\r\n     1) On the overview of economic relations, the two countries set a trade target of USD 100 million by 2027.
\r\n     2) On promoting trade and investment, especially trade promotion, Thailand invited Mongolian entrepreneurs to attend international trade fairs that are organized annually by the Ministry of Commerce, such as STYLE Bangkok Fair, THAIFEX-ANUGA Asia, and Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair. As for investment promotion, Thailand proposed to organize an investor matching event between Thailand and Mongolia in sectors where both sides have the strong capability.
\r\n     3) On the development of the agreement to promote and protect investment, Thailand urged Mongolia to expedite the consideration of the draft Agreement on Investment Promotion and Protection, as proposed by Thailand to promote investment between the two sides.
\r\n     4) On the review of the Convention for theAvoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income, Thailand urged Mongolia to expedite the consideration of the period for reviewing the draft convention to meet with the international standards and to comply with regulations under the Agreement in which both are parties. Both sides will be ready to review the draft convention in early 2023.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span><\/strong>Saudi Arabia<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>Meeting between the Deputy Governor of the General Authority of Foreign Trade (GAFT) (H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz bin Omar Alsakran) and the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Keerati Rushchano)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> as co-chairs of the Economic and Trade Committee Under the Saudi-Thai Coordination Council (STCC), with the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (Mr. Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit) also participated in the discussion on 8 August 2023 via videoconference. Key outcomes of the discussion were as follows: The two sides made introductory and congratulatory remarks on the occasion of the establishment of a mechanism for economic and trade discussions. It was viewed the mechanism would be beneficial in driving relationships and cooperation between both sides in various sectors. In addition, Thailand followed up on the progress of the draft memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Commerce and the Saudi Arabian General Authority of Foreign Trade. Both sides also agreed to support the participation in promotional activities organised by both countries.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
<\/span>Sri Lanka<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

The 4th Meeting of Thailand-Sri Lanka Sub-Committee on Trade-Related Matters (via video conference)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 6 May 2022. The meeting was chaired by the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Acting Director-General for the Sri Lanka Department of Trade (Mr. Ananda Dharmapriya). The meeting followed up on the implementation progress of the Joint Action Plan (JAP) under the Memorandum of Understanding on Strategic Economic Partnership between Thailand and Sri Lanka covering 10 areas of cooperation, namely investment, basic infrastructure, development of the agricultural sector, fisheries, gems and jewellery, tourism, small and medium enterprises, financial cooperation, packaging industry, and the development of information technology.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
<\/span><\/strong>Turkey<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Bilateral discussion between the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Boonyarit Kalayanamit) with the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Thailand (H.E. Ms. Serap Ersoy)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 13 June 2022 at the Ministry of Commerce. The discussion involved the subject of strengthening economic and trade relations between the two sides, as well as preparing for the 8th Thailand-Turkey Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. The Thai side expressed readiness to host the meeting and pushed for both sides to accelerate negotiations to be able to conclude the FTA negotiations quickly.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
United Arab Emirates<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Bilateral Meeting between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Minister of State Responsible for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates (H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Seyoudi)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 7 February 2023 at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The meeting took place with the following outcomes: Both sides discussed the development of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) between Thailand and the UAE and agreed to create the CEPA. Both sides assigned their respective agencies responsible for negotiating free trade agreements to hold a discussion at the senior official level to expedite the start of the negotiations. For Thailand, it is necessary to receive approval from the Cabinet on the negotiation framework before officially launching the negotiations. The two sides agreed to carry out the relevant internal processes to announce the launch of CEPA negotiations as soon as possible. In addition, the UAE side also expressed an interest in investing in Thailand in the industries of infrastructure, digital, and food security, as well as investing in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Thai startup businesses that show great potential.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>
\r\nDiscussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Chairman of the Japan-Thailand Trade and Economic Committee Japan Business Federation (Keidanren)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>(Mr. Suzuki Yoshihisa and Mr. Suzuki Jun) Together with a delegation of 19 leading Japanese private sector representatives from 11 companies on 14 March 2023 at the Government House. The main outcomes were as follows: The two sides discussed the trade situation and strategy between Thailand and Japan. Japan recognised the need to reinforce the supply chain by strengthening trade and economic relations, both bilaterally and multilaterally, between Thailand and Japan. Japan also encouraged the utilisation of EPA agreements that Thailand and Japan are both parties to, including 1) The Thailand-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA); 2) The ASEAN-Japan Economic Partnership (AJCEP) agreement; and 3) The RCEP agreement.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th\/en\/content\/categories\/detail\/id\/1989\/iid\/13173","date_published":"2024-07-01T16:40:00"},{"id":"ae169b102494c8be17a451eba2a5a183","title":"Building trade relations with partner countries in the Americas and the Pacific Region","content_text":"

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Canada<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>Bilateral discussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development of Canada (The Honorable Mary Ng) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>during the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting on 22 May 2022 at Centara Grand at Central World. The key points of discussions can be summarized as follows: Thailand requested Canada’s support on the importation of jasmine rice and healthy rice, as well as for help to accelerate the visa application process for Thai chefs to promote the Thai restaurant business in Canada. In addition, both sides reiterated the importance for entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and the vulnerable groups who needed special assistance during the difficult times of the COVID-19 situation. Thailand asked Canada to support environmentally friendly products from Thailand, such as green products that replace plastic, which is in line with Canada's ban on single-use plastics, and creative products, especially digital games where Thailand asked Canada to help promote online business matching (OBM) activities so that the digital gaming sectors of Thailand and Canada can have the opportunity to work with each other. Furthermore, the two sides also discussed the ASEAN-Canada FTA negotiations and indicated the readiness to drive the negotiations to achieve results as soon as possible. This will help to build confidence for both ASEAN and Canadian business sectors, increase trade and investment opportunities, and help link the production chains of the two regions to become closer together.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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USA<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

Bilateral discussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the US Trade Representative (Mrs. Katherine Tai) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>during the APEC Ministerial Meeting hosted by Thailand on 18 November 2022 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. They discussed the United States’ hosting of APEC in 2023, support for the creation of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), followed up on the progress of the review of GSP by the US, and urged the US to withdraw Thailand from the Intellectual Property Watch List.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Thailand-US Senior Officials’ Meeting under the Thailand-US Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 6 September 6 2023.in Washington, United States. The discussion focused on the issue of trade relations between Thailand and the United States. Thailand asked the United States to expedite the renewal of GSP which ended in 2020. This is to enable Thai exporters and importers of products from the United States to benefit from the scheme. Thailand also requested the United States to consider removing Thailand from the Watch List on the issue of intellectual property (Watch List: WL).<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
Australia<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of Australia on the Strategic Economic Cooperation Arrangement (SECA)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 17 November 2022. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of the Strategic Economic Cooperation Arrangement (SECA) between Thailand and Australia along with the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia (H.E. Mr. Timothy Graham Watts), the Vice Minister for Commerce (H.E. Dr. Sansern Samalapa), and the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The key outcomes were as follows: The Ministry of Commerce of Thailand, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Embassy of the Commonwealth of Australia in Thailand jointly developed the Economic Cooperation Strategy (SECA) between Thailand and Australia. The aim is to put into practice the Joint Declaration on a Strategic Partnership between the Kingdom of Thailand and Australia signed by the Leaders in 2020 and to achieve concrete outcomes. The SECA will be based on cooperation and not legally binding, as well as being in line with domestic laws. SECA featured 8 important areas of cooperation including but not limited to: 1) Agriculture, technology and sustainable food; 2) Tourism; 3) Health services; 4) Education;  5) Digital trade and digital economy; 6) Creative economy;, 7) Mutually beneficial investment; and 8) Energy, green economy, and reducing carbon emissions.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
New Zealand<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Discussion between the New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Jonathan Kings) and the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 17 August 2022 at the Department of Trade Negotiations. They discussed issues on trade relations between Thailand and New Zealand, especially on the supply chain linkages that will help support the recovery and to boost trade after the COVID-19 crisis and in the future. There was also a discussion on related free trade agreements, such as the RCEP agreement and AANZFTA, and so on.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
<\/span>IPEF<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Participation in the Informal Ministerial Discussion on Indo-Pacific Cooperation Framework in Paris.<\/strong><\/span><\/span> The Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) assigned the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the World Trade Organization and the World Intellectual Property Organization (Mrs. Pimchanok Pitfield) as a representative to attend the Informal Ministerial Meeting (IMM) on the Trade Pillar of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) on 11 June 2022 in Paris to discuss ways to develop the cooperation framework under the IPEF trade pillar. The discussion was chaired by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) (H.E. Ms. Katherine Tai) and attended by ministers or representatives from 13 countries including Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) Ministerial Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/span> between 6-9 September 2022 in Los Angeles. United States of America. The Minister (Commercial) and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the World Trade Organization and the World Intellectual Property Organization (Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote) was assigned to attend the meeting. H.E. Mrs. Pornpimol Kanjanalak, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, was the head of the Thai delegation. The meeting was also attended by Ministers from 13 other countries, including Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam. The meeting endorsed the IPEF Ministerial Texts for four pillars, which are: 1) Trade 2) Supply Chain; 3) Clean Economy; and 4) Fair Economy, which will be used as a framework to negotiate details in the IPEF chapters in the future.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Participated in 5 Negotiation Rounds for the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> The first negotiation round was held in December 2022 in Brisbane, Australia. The second round was held in March 2023 in Bali, Indonesia. The third round was held in May 2023 in Singapore. The fourth round was held in July 2023 in Busan, South Korea. The fifth round was held in September 2023 in Bangkok. Thailand, the United States, and other partner countries participated in the IPEF negotiations meeting on trade, supply chains, a clean and green economy, and a fair economy.<\/span>
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<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th\/en\/content\/categories\/detail\/id\/1989\/iid\/13175","date_published":"2024-07-01T09:18:00"},{"id":"fb5b0f230a11c704ef0fdb46525e5cb6","title":"Building trade relations with partner countries in Europe and the CIS Region","content_text":"

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<\/b><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
EUROPE REGION<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
Austria<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>Bilateral discussion between the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Austrian Federal Minister of Labour and Economy (H.E. Mr. Martin Kocher)<\/span> <\/strong><\/span>on 14 November 2022 at the Ministry of Commerce. The meeting took place with the following outcomes: The Thai side invited Austrian businessmen to invest more in Thailand’s important industries, such as automotive parts and machinery and parts and invited Austrian entrepreneurs to participate in activities that can be used as a platform to build trade networks with Thailand, including: STYLE Bangkok 2023, THAIFEX-ANUGA ASIA 2023 and Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair and requested support for Thailand's hosting of Specialized Expo 2028. In addition, Austria, as an important member of the European Union, was asked to support the revival of the Thailand-EU FTA negotiations with the recognition that the FTA would help increase trade and investment for both sides, as well as link the value chain between the EU, Austria, and Thailand, as well as ASEAN.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>The Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Establishment of a Joint Working Group on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Thailand and Austria<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 14 November 2022 at the Ministry of Commerce, Thailand. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) presided over the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the Joint Working Group on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Thailand and Austria together with the Austrian Federal Minister of Labour and Economy (H.E. Mr. Martin Kocher). The main substance can be summarised, as follows: To strengthen economic, trade, and academic cooperation in fields of common interest. A joint working group on trade and economic cooperation was established. There were 10 areas of cooperation highlighted, including 1) The automotive industry; 2) Management services in the tourism industry; 3) Organic farming; 4) Circular economy; 5) Smart cities; 6) Small and medium-sized and enterprises; 7) Start-up enterprises; 8) Human resources development; 9) Industrial Machinery, Robotics, and Automation Systems; and 10) Textile Technology. Additional areas of common interest may also be added later.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
France<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>The 4th High-Level Economic Dialogue (HLED) (via video conference) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>at the Ministry of Commerce on 9 November 2021. The Dialogue was co-chaired by the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations. (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Head of Bilateral Affairs and International Business Development Department of the French Treasury (Mrs. Magali Cezana). The meeting discussed the strengthening of economic relations, which Thailand has proposed sectors to cooperate with France, particularly in innovation and modern technology such as agriculture and food. Cosmetics and perfumes, medical and health, sustainable and wellness tourism, textiles and fashion, rubber, and smart vehicles. In addition, France also indicated an interest in expanding cooperation with Thailand in the field of transportation.<\/span><\/span>
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<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t
United Kingdom<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>The 1st Meeting of the Thailand-UK Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 21 June 2022. The Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the United Kingdom's Secretary of State for International Trade at the time (H.E. The Rt Hon Elizabeth Truss) signed the “Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee and Other Supporting Mechanisms to Facilitate Cooperation Following the Completion of the Trade Policy Review between the Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Department for International Trade of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland” in a virtual format on 29 March 2021. It was specified that a Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) would be established at the ministerial level with the purpose of promoting and expanding economic relations between the two sides, especially in areas where both parties have strong competency. The meeting is scheduled to take place once per year, or as both parties deem appropriate. On 21 June 2022, Thailand attended the 1st JETCO Meeting (the United Kingdom hosted the meeting), with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce (H.E. Mr. Jurin Laksanawisit) and the Minister of State for Trade Policy (Mrs. Penny Mordaunt) as co-chairs. The two sides discussed issues such as agriculture, food and beverage, digital, investment, trade and finance, and so on, and adopted a work plan to set activities and cooperation to achieve common goals in a concrete manner that will act as a mechanism for reviving and expanding trade and investment value between the two sides.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>
\r\nMeeting of the Senior Officials Meeting under the Thailand - United Kingdom Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 6 December 2002. The two sides discussed important issues such as the schedule of the 2nd Thailand-United Kingdom JETCO meeting, progress of the implementation of the United Kingdom-Thailand work plan, and the guidelines for developing the relationship towards achieving an enhanced trade partnership (ETP).<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>
\r\nDiscussion between the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and Thailand’s Ambassador in London (H.E. Mr. Thani Thongphakdi) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 27 December 2022 at the Ministry of Commerce, Thailand. The discussion took place regarding the progress of relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom on important issues, such as outcomes of the 1st Thailand-United Kingdom Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting, the progress of the Implementation of the United Kingdom-Thailand work plan, the chance of having a free trade agreement between Thailand and the United Kingdom, and the development of strategic partnership between both sides, as well as the issue on the use of monkey labour in the coconut industry in Thailand, as raised by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) organisation.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/span>
\r\n<\/span>Preparatory Meeting for the 2nd Ministerial Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 17–20 June 2023 in London, United Kingdom. The meeting took place with the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) as the head of the Thai delegation, and Deputy Director-General for Bilateral Economic Relations, Department of Business and Trade (Mr. Ron Yip) as the head of the UK delegation. The main outcomes of the discussion can be summarised, as follows: A discussion on the preparations for holding the 2nd Ministerial Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting to be hosted by Thailand in November 2023. Important issues to be considered include follow-up on economic cooperation activities and the elevation of the relationship to a strategic economic partnership (Enhanced Trade Partnership: ETP), especially in areas of common interest such as food and beverage, health, education, automotive, agriculture, and digital. These factors will lead to the consideration of developing an FTA between Thailand and the UK in the future.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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ASEAN - Japan FTA<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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Belarus<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

The Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Thailand, with residence in Hanoi, Socialist Republic of Vietnam (H.E. Mr. Uladzimir Baravikou) met with the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) on 28 September 2023 at The Athenee Hotel, Bangkok. The discussion took place to strengthen relations on economic cooperation and trade between Thailand and Belarus. Thailand also requested support for the launch of negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), of which Belarus is a member.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Kazakhstan<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

Discussion between the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Arman Isetov) on 28 October 2002. A discussion took place featuring issues of economic cooperation and trade between Thailand and Kazakhstan. The discussion covered various issues including: 1) Promoting trade relations between Thailand and Kazakhstan; 2) Pushed for the signing of the Thailand-Kazakhstan FTA; 3) Pushed for the launch of negotiations on the Thailand - Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement; 4) Support for Thailand for the hosting of the Expo 2028 - Phuket, Thailand.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Russia<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

Bilateral Discussion between Thailand and Russia during the 55th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meeting and Related Meetings between 19-22 August 2023 in Semarang, Republic of Indonesia. A discussion took place during the AEM meeting with the following outcomes: The Meeting discussed ways to expand trade to reach the target of 10 billion US dollars in 2023, with both sides emphasizing the importance of facilitating trade to expand the trade value to reach the target as soon as possible. The Russian side raised the important issues of increasing trade value in sectors where both sides can benefit, such as agricultural products, fisheries, food, energy, fertilizers and pharmaceuticals, which are important raw materials for producing consumer goods for both sides.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Uzbekistan<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

Discussion between the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Consulate-General of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Thailand (Mr. Fakhriddin Sultanov) on 20 October 2022. The discussion took place on trade relations between Thailand and Uzbekistan. Various issues were discussed including the development of the Thailand-Uzbekistan FTA, Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization, and support for Thailand for the hosting of the Expo 2028 – Phuket, Thailand.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th\/en\/content\/categories\/detail\/id\/1989\/iid\/13174","date_published":"2024-07-01T09:10:00"},{"id":"6ebddcdb48bc7e0dff67417df1dccbca","title":"Building Trade Relations with Partner Countries in Africa","content_text":"

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Angola<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>The Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to Thailand, with residence in Hanoi (H.E. Mr. Agostinho André de Carvalho Fernandes), met with the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations. (Mr. Duangarthit Nidhi-u-tai) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 23 June 2023. The meeting took place with the following outcomes: Angola wished to cooperate with Thailand in various sectors, including tourism, public health, and knowledge transfer regarding the production and processing of palm oil. Angola also invited Thai entrepreneurs to invest in Angola. In addition, Thailand invited Angola to participate in international trade fairs that the Ministry of Commerce held annually, such as the 68th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair on 6 – 10 September 2023 and THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 on 28 May – 1 June 2024.<\/span>
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<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Egypt<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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Bilateral Meeting between the Director General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Moustapha Mahmoud Moustapha Elkouny)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 7 June 2022 at the Department of Trade Negotiations. The discussion focused on the promotion of trade and investment between Thailand and the Arab Republic of Egypt. On this occasion, Thailand also followed up on the progress of consideration of the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the establishment of a Thailand-Egypt Joint Trade Committee (JTC) at the ministerial level and the draft 5-Year Joint Action Plan (JAP) between Thailand and Egypt, which Thailand sent a draft to Egypt for consideration on 27 August 2019. Thailand shared the view that the two sides should give priority to the draft MoU on the establishment of the Thailand-Egypt JTC to reach a conclusion on the MoU and to arrange a Thailand-Egypt JTC meeting as soon as possible. This is because the JTC will be a useful mechanism for discussing the ways to expand trade and investment between the two sides in a more tangible manner and can help to promote economic cooperation between the two countries in several sectors, as well as to become a forum for considering the draft Joint Action Plan between Thailand and Egypt. The Ambassador indicated his pleasure to support the establishment of the Thailand-Egypt JTC, as well as recognizing the importance of the draft Joint Action Plan.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Bilateral Discussion between the Director General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Representative of the Egyptian Commercial Service (ECS), Ministry of Trade and Industry of Egypt<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 13 June 2022. The Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations together with representatives from the Thai Trade Center in Cairo met with Mr. Wael Samir, Director of the Asia Department, the Egyptian Commercial Service (ECS), Ministry of Trade and Industry of Egypt in Cairo, Egypt to discuss ways to promote economic relations between both sides, such as inviting investors to invest in the country while maximizing the benefits of the geographical location and the free trade agreements (FTA) that both sides have, and encouraging entrepreneurs to participate in the trade shows of each party. In addition, Thailand also followed up on the progress of consideration on the draft MoU on the establishment of the Thailand-Egypt JTC at the ministerial level and the draft of the 5-Year Joint Action Plan between Thailand and Egypt, which Thailand submitted to the Egyptian side for consideration in August 2019.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Kenya<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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The Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Kiptiness Lindsay Kimwole) met with the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum)<\/strong><\/span><\/span> on 5 July 2023 at the Ministry of Commerce, Thailand. The meeting took place with the following main outcomes: The two sides discussed the issue of promoting economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Thailand and Kenya. Thailand indicated her readiness to support Kenya in organising a seminar to publicise knowledge about trade and investment in the country since Thai entrepreneurs still possess little knowledge of investment in Kenya. Thailand also invited businesspeople from Kenya to attend trade shows in Thailand, such as the Gems and Jewelry Fair, Thailand Tractor & Agri-Machinery Show (THAITAM). and food and beverage expo (THAIFEX – Anuga Asia).
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Morocco<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>Discussion between the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 19 August 2022 at the Department of Trade Negotiations. The discussion aimed to strengthen relations and expand the economic and trade value between the two countries. The key points of discussion can be summarized as follows:
\r\n     1) Both sides agreed to consider the possibility of holding the 1st Joint Trade Committee Meeting at the ministerial level in Rabat to explore opportunities and ways to expand trade and investment between two countries, as well as to invite the private sector to join when it is deemed appropriate. This is because Thailand and Morocco concluded the Trade Agreement Between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of the Kingdom of Morocco on 25 January 2000 and established the Joint Trade Committee (JTC) to monitor, assess, and expand trade between the two countries.
\r\n     2) Both sides agreed to discuss and review the agreement to be in line with the current situation, as well as to consider the possibility of using the JTC as a forum to discuss the possibility of studying and developing an FTA in the future.
\r\n     3) Morocco agreed to promote cooperation with Thailand under the South-South Cooperation of developing countries to promote food and energy security, especially on renewable energy as Morocco places importance on the development of clean and green energy while also having the policy to liberalize investment in such areas.
\r\n     4) The Thai side offered to import fertilizers from Morocco, since Morocco is the world's 4th largest exporter of fertilizers while Thailand still has low import value from Morocco. Both sides agreed that the issue should be discussed with the Ministry of Agriculture of Morocco, or it may be raised at the 3rd Political Consultation to be held at the end of 2022.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Tunisia<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\r\n\t\t<\/tr>\r\n\t<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n

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<\/span>Discussion between the Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations (Mrs. Auramon Supthaweethum) and the Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia to Thailand (H.E. Mr. Riadh Dridi) <\/strong><\/span><\/span>on 5 October 2022 at the Department of Trade Negotiations. The two sides met on the occasion of assuming the position as Ambassador to Thailand. Both sides discussed the issue of strengthening economic relations and expanding trade value between each other. The summary of the discussion is as follows: 
\r\n     1) Both sides agreed to push for a meeting of the 3rd Ministerial Joint Trade Committee meeting when possible since the meeting had not taken place for a long time after Tunisia hosted the second meeting in 2007. The meeting is an important mechanism for enhancing economic cooperation through setting trade goals, discussing the sectoral work plans, as well as to organise business forum\/business matching activities on the side to increase trade and investment between each other; and 
\r\n     2) The Tunisian viewed that after the COVID-19 pandemic, the bilateral trade between both sides could increase, with Tunisia importing more products from Thailand and would also like to increase exports to Thailand including both agricultural and industrial products.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

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<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/www.dtn.go.th\/en\/content\/categories\/detail\/id\/1989\/iid\/13177","date_published":"2024-07-01T07:40:00"}]}