Bangkok: Sirikanya Tansakul, MP for the Prachachon Party and Deputy Leader of the Party, has expressed skepticism about the Thai government's optimistic announcement regarding tax negotiations with the United States. She is demanding specific details on the timeline, stressing the urgency given the looming deadline for tariff hikes on July 7.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sirikanya acknowledged the government's claims of positive signals from the United States as encouraging. However, she emphasized the need for precise information on when discussions will occur, noting that the United States Court of Appeals is still reviewing the matter. With the deadline approaching, she highlighted the necessity for immediate action should no alternative directive be issued.
Ms. Sirikanya commented on the Thai team's negotiation strategy, which involves observing other countries' stances to formulate a compelling proposal for the United States. While she sees potential merit in this approach, she cautioned that relying on such a strategy might not significantly impact the proposals already presented. She underscored the importance of a timely and definitive negotiation process, pointing out that no country, including the United Kingdom, has reached a clear agreement yet.
She further remarked on the complexity of the negotiation process, which extends beyond trade to include investment and other standards that the United States may require. Ms. Sirikanya reiterated the importance of beginning negotiations promptly, while also pressing for a specific date to be confirmed.