Khaosod English - 18 May 2026
Thailand, Peru Push to finalise free trade deal in 2026
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Peru’s ambassador agreed Monday to accelerate free trade negotiations between the two countries, with both sides expressing hope a deal could be signed before the end of 2026.
The commitment came during a farewell visit to Government House by Ambassador Cecilia Zunilda Galarreta Bazán, who is completing her diplomatic posting in Bangkok. The two held informal talks covering trade, food security, and logistics.
The two held informal discussions, during which the ambassador expressed appreciation for Thailand and praised the long-standing co-operation between the two countries. Galarreta Bazán said Thailand and Peru had maintained close relations and strong co-operation for many years, adding that she felt honored to have contributed to elevating bilateral ties between the two nations across multiple dimensions during her tenure.
On economic matters, both sides welcomed progress in negotiations for the Thailand-Peru Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and expressed hope that talks could be accelerated to allow the pact to be signed within this year.
Regarding food security, both sides recognized the high agricultural potential of their respective countries and agreed there remained significant opportunities to expand co-operation in the sector. Anutin affirmed that Thailand is ready to serve as a primary food source for Peru and the broader South American region.
The ambassador also raised the Chancay Port project — a deepwater Pacific hub currently under development in Peru — noting Thailand could play a meaningful role in the initiative. The port is expected to significantly improve supply chain links between South America and ASEAN, with Thailand serving as a key entry point into the region.
Anutin also thanked the ambassador for her dedication to fostering Thai-Peruvian relations and wished her success in her future endeavors, emphasizing she would always be welcomed back to Thailand as a close friend of the nation.
