Economy
Thai Government Promotes FTA Usage to Boost SME Exports
The Thai government reports a 7.33% increase in FTA utilization during the first half of 2026, reaching 1.57 trillion baht, and is now encouraging SMEs to leverage these agreements to reduce costs.
According to the Thailand Government Public Relations Department, the government is actively encouraging small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to utilize Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to lower operational costs and improve their competitive edge in international markets. This initiative follows a strong performance in the first half of 2026, during which FTA utilization reached 1.57 trillion baht, marking a 7.33% growth compared to the previous period.
For residents and expatriates involved in the local business sector, this push signifies a potential shift in the trade landscape, as the government aims to integrate smaller businesses more deeply into global supply chains. While the data highlights a positive trend in export efficiency, it remains to be confirmed how specific policy support will be distributed to smaller firms and what long-term impact this will have on the pricing of local goods. Travelers and residents should note that while this is a macroeconomic development, it reflects the government's ongoing strategy to strengthen the national economy through trade liberalization. Further details regarding the specific mechanisms for SME support are expected to be clarified by relevant trade authorities in the coming months.