Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce held discussions with the Canadian Minister of Trade to strengthen economic cooperation and support FTA negotiations. It was revealed that Canada is preparing to open direct flights between Vancouver and Bangkok to expand trade, particularly in agricultural products.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, Minister of Commerce, met with Mr. Maninder Sidou, Minister of International Trade of Canada, during the 56th World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to discuss further cooperation in trade and investment amidst global economic uncertainty. The meeting marked the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Ms. Supajee emphasized the readiness of Thailand to advance economic and trade relations with Canada, particularly through Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations at both regional (ASEAN-Canada) and bilateral (Thailand-Canada) levels. Canada has shown enthusiasm in accelerating these negotiations, with leaders from both sides agreeing to initiate the process during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in October 2025. They aim to complete the negotiations within the year, which would open significant trade and investment opportunities.
In addition to the FTA discussions, the planned direct flights between Vancouver and Bangkok aim to enhance connectivity and facilitate travel. Canada seeks to expand trade in agricultural products, while Thailand is prepared to export goods such as rice, cooked chicken, and processed seafood. Both countries aim to leverage their strengths in raw materials, technology, and logistics to expand cooperation in the food sector and other areas like clean energy and digital technology.
Canada is also interested in the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), which will connect the digital economy in the ASEAN region and support SMEs in promoting sustainable development.
In 2024, the total trade between Thailand and Canada was valued at US$3,223.85 million, with Thailand's exports and imports increasing significantly from 2023. During the first 11 months of 2025, the total trade amounted to US$3,577.68 million, with Thailand enjoying a trade surplus of US$1,101.10 million.