Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has intensified efforts to accelerate negotiations for the Thailand-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), while strengthening bilateral cooperation with Germany. Commerce Permanent Secretary Vuttikrai Leewiraphan recently met with Daniela Schmitt, Minister for Economic Affairs, Transport, Agriculture and Viticulture of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, during her business delegation’s visit to Thailand.

During the discussion, both sides explored opportunities to expand trade, investment, and collaboration in strategic sectors. These included smart farming, agricultural technology, artificial intelligence for farming development, chemical industries, pharmaceuticals, and advanced automotive production. Thailand also highlighted its readiness to welcome German investors, particularly in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which offers strong potential for high-tech industries.

Thailand further requested Germany’s support in helping conclude the Thailand-EU FTA negotiations as soon as possible, noting that the agreement would significantly enhance trade and investment between both sides. Germany remains Thailand’s largest trading partner within the European Union, with bilateral trade valued at more than US$11.6 billion in 2025.