Bangkok: Commerce Ministry indicates that the leaders' visit sends positive signals, supporting the recovery of Thai-Myanmar border trade. According to Thai News Agency, the Department of International Trade views the Myanmar President's visit to Thailand as a positive development for economic cooperation, aiming to alleviate obstacles to border trade, particularly at the Mae Sot border crossing, a significant trade route linking to Myawaddy. By 2025, border and transit trade is expected to surpass 199 billion baht, with plans to initiate a Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting between Thailand and Myanmar within the year.
Ms. Arada noted that this visit occurs at a crucial time when border trade remains a vital channel for commerce between Thailand and Myanmar. By 2025, the overall trade value between the two nations is projected to reach 244,051 million baht, with border and transit trade accounting for more than 81% of this figure.
The Mae Sot border crossing in Tak province continues to be an essential trade gateway connecting to Myawaddy in Myanmar. However, businesses have encountered various challenges, such as border closures, import license requirements, foreign currency regulations, goods transportation issues, and security concerns. These challenges have escalated trading costs and affected business confidence.
The Department of International Trade perceives this leaders' discussion as a positive political message indicating both governments' intention to foster economic cooperation, particularly in minimizing obstacles and facilitating cross-border trade.
The Thai side has proposed establishing a Joint Trade Commission (JTC) between Thailand and Myanmar by 2026. This committee would act as a mechanism for systematically addressing and resolving trade barriers, including streamlining import procedures, reducing non-tariff measures, enhancing customs procedures, and developing logistics networks and border trade linkages.
Additionally, the Thailand-Myanmar Business Forum 2026 offered an opportunity for private sector representatives from both countries to connect, share information, and build business networks. The Department of International Trade anticipates that this will further promote cooperation in trade and investment and create additional business prospects in the future.
Ms. Arada emphasized that if cooperation mechanisms and the resolution of trade barriers continue, this leaders' visit will significantly contribute to the recovery of Thai-Myanmar border trade and the economy in the border regions in the future.