Trade ties get big push at Apec meeting in South Korea

NEWSPAPER SECTION: News, WRITER: Post Reporters

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will ask Chinese President Xi Jinping to expedite China’s consideration of purchasing 500,000 tonnes of Thai rice when the two leaders meet at the Apec summit in South Korea.

“I will use the opportunity to raise several issues particularly the proposed rice imports which will not only boost national revenue but also strengthen bilateral trade ties with China,” Mr Anutin said on Wednesday before leaving for South Korea.

Earlier, Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthamphan said she would visit China next month to finalise a government-to-government (G-to-G) rice purchase agreement and push for further cooperation on agricultural products.

China has been Thailand’s biggest trade partner for 12 consecutive years, with bilateral trade soaring to US$96 billion (3.2 trillion baht), growing by 28.1% in the first eight months of this year, the minister said.

Mr Anutin’s remarks were in response to questions about Thailand’s economic positioning after the government recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States on rare earth minerals.

Under the pact, the Thai and US governments agreed to establish a framework for cooperation on critical minerals and rare earth elements which is aimed at enhancing energy security and promoting the creation of a sustainable global supply chain. The initiative seeks to support key strategic industries, such as electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, and advanced electronics.

Government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat said Mr Anutin will participate in two key sessions: “Towards a More Connected, Resilient Region and Beyond” on Friday and “Preparing a Future–Ready Asia–Pacific” on Saturday.

The first session will highlight Thailand’s efforts to promote trade, investments, public-private partnerships as well as its readiness to act as a bridge for Apec members and trading partners outside the region to ensure inclusive and long-term growth.

At the second session, Thailand will propose strategies to prepare Apec for future challenges via the use of AI and innovations to promote inclusive and sustainable growth. Mr Siripong said the prime minister will also attend the Apec CEO summit where he will deliver a keynote speech under the theme of “Bridge, Business, Beyond”.

He will also participate in the ABAC Dialogue with Apec Economic Leaders, and meet the US-Apec Coalition, one of the US’ largest business networks, and attend the Apec Economic Leaders’ Gala Dinner. Mr Anutin was to attend the Special Dinner for Apec Economic Leaders on Wednesday evening hosted by South Korean President Lee Jae-myung where he was expected to have informal discussions with several global leaders.

Published Date: October 30, 2025