The Thai government on Tuesday revealed plans to remove tariffs on U.S. feed corn and increase import volumes by more than eighteen times starting next year, in accordance with its recent trade deal with the United States. The policy aims to strengthen bilateral trade ties and secure a consistent supply of raw materials for Thailand’s livestock feed sector.
Thailand plans to import 1 million tons of U.S. corn at zero tariffs between February and June 2026, government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said.
Thailand’s cabinet has approved a significant increase in its annual U.S. corn import quota, raising it to 1 million metric tons from the previous 54,600 tons, while eliminating the existing 20% tariff. This change amounts to an approximate 18.3-fold rise in permitted imports.
A Thai government official stated, “This measure supports the nation’s feed industry by securing sufficient raw materials while upholding the trade commitments made during negotiations with the United States.”
While increasing U.S. corn imports, Thailand has implemented measures to safeguard local farmers. Imports will be restricted to February through June to avoid coinciding with the domestic harvest season, which usually occurs in the fourth quarter.
Moreover, feed mills will need to buy three tons of domestic corn for each ton of imported corn they bring in.
According to government figures, Thailand’s annual feed corn consumption is around 9 million tons, with imports ranging between 4 and 5 million tons.
The policy originates from a bilateral trade agreement signed in late July, under which Thailand agreed to remove tariffs on most U.S. products, while the U.S. lowered duties on Thai goods from 36% to 19%.
On October 26, the two countries finalized a ‘Mutual Trade Agreement Framework,’ detailing further cooperation and reductions in non-tariff barriers. As part of the agreement, Thailand pledged to import around $2.6 billion worth of U.S. agricultural products each year, including feed corn and soybean meal.
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