Thailand Says Tariffs Should Not Be Used to Pressure Cambodia Talks

Thailand Says Tariffs Should Not Be Used to Pressure Cambodia Talks

LN24 / 25 minutes

December 9, 2025

2 min read

Thailand has said that trade tariffs should not be used as leverage to force the country into talks with Cambodia or to halt renewed border fighting. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasised that de-escalation must come from Cambodia.

Fighting flared on Monday after weeks of tension, leaving at least 12 dead and displacing hundreds of thousands along their shared 817-kilometre border. Both countries have accused each other of initiating the clashes, which involved heavy artillery and rockets. The recent violence marks the worst outbreak since July, when an earlier ceasefire was expanded in October after international pressure.

Sihasak stated that Thai-Cambodia relations should be treated separately from trade discussions. He added that the current situation is not suitable for third-party mediation, and Cambodia must demonstrate willingness to engage in talks.

Cambodia maintains it is abiding by the ceasefire and has accused Thailand of aggression. Thai officials warn that continued hostilities could escalate, noting landmine incidents and injuries among soldiers. Thailand has deployed fighter jets and stressed its commitment to defending sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Sihasak said the countries face a choice between pursuing peace or risking further conflict and losses, with any ceasefire proposals from Cambodia subject to review by Thai armed forces.