BANGKOK – U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about signing a tariff agreement with Thailand during his upcoming visit to Asia. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed officials to expedite tariff negotiations following Trump’s recent communication, according to government spokesman Ekkapop Pianpises on October 6, 2026.
During a Cabinet meeting, Ekkapop reported that Anutin informed ministers about the letter from Trump, in which the U.S. leader indicated a desire to finalize negotiations soon. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has been tasked with leading the tariff discussions, which are said to be in their final stages.
Officials anticipate that Anutin and Trump may meet either at the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in the Philippines from November 16 to 18, 2026, or at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in China on November 18-19.
In a related development, the Thai Cabinet approved a new budget consultation process to better prepare the fiscal 2028 expenditure budget. This process will include a pre-budget consultation stage set for late October, allowing governmental and non-governmental stakeholders—including coalition and opposition parties, relevant agencies, and members of the public—to contribute to budget planning.
Ekkapop described the new approach as a significant shift in Thailand’s budgeting framework, allowing for more comprehensive input from various sectors. The timetable will also provide budget-receiving agencies with additional time to prepare their budget proposals, enhancing the quality of information available for decision-making.
The government aims to implement zero-based budgeting for fiscal 2028, focusing on developing spending proposals based on planned activities rather than previous allocations. This initiative is designed to promote public transparency and participation at every stage of the budgeting process.
Key budget priorities will include addressing public concerns, restructuring the economy and society, and improving public financial stability. Specific efforts will target economic volatility, bolster food security, and support transitions to bioenergy and green energy sources. Additionally, the government plans to tackle inequality and enhance infrastructure to improve citizens’ quality of life.
As part of this budgeting overhaul, proposals will be evaluated for urgency and importance. Projects deemed unnecessary or of lower priority may face postponement or cancellation to ensure economic efficiency and fairness.
