Trump’s 19% tariff rates ‘best news’ for Thailand, Cambodia
The US president had earlier threatened to block trade deals with both countries unless they ended a deadly border clash
“This finalised deal, setting US import tariffs at 19 per cent, marks a major success for Thailand,” Thai government spokesman Jirayu Huangsab said in a statement. “It represents a win-win approach aimed at preserving Thailand’s export base and long-term economic stability.”
Earlier this week, the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate ceasefire to halt the worst clashes between the two nations in more than a decade, which left more than 40 people dead. The truce, however, has been tested, with Thailand accusing Cambodian troops of unprovoked firing in violation of the agreement.
The new rates were unveiled alongside Trump’s announcement that the US would keep minimum global tariff rates at 10 per cent, lower than the earlier threatened floor of 15 per cent or higher, according to a White House statement on Thursday.