“Pichai,” former Minister of Commerce, warns against reckless negotiations with the United States fearing they will fail further. He points out that using “Cobra Gold” as leverage in tax talks could harm Thailand and suggests considering changes to the negotiation team.
On 14 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan, former Minister of Commerce, stated that he has learned of foreign reports linking the joint military exercise “Cobra Gold” between Thailand and the United States to tax negotiations. If such information was indeed sent from the Thai side, it is very unwise as it could cause economic and security harm. He stressed the need to verify whether all relevant parties had carefully discussed this before sharing such information.
Although the government has denied this, the mere emergence of this issue could undermine trust and confidence in the important economic and security relationship between Thailand and the US. Therefore, security matters should not be unnecessarily linked to trade negotiations.
Many may not know that the military relationship between Thailand and the US has long been strong, and “Cobra Gold” is a key collaboration for both countries. The joint exercise enhances capabilities, cooperation, planning, and readiness to address threats, while also contributing to regional stability and cooperation. Cobra Gold 2026 marks the 45th exercise, involving troops from 30 countries.
Thus, if “Cobra Gold” is being used as a bargaining tool for tax issues, it is inappropriate and could disadvantage Thailand more than benefit it. Instead, the existing relationship should serve as a foundation to strengthen cooperation with the US in economy, trade, and security.
Mr. Pichai said he had previously warned about delays in tax negotiations with the US and emphasized the need to clearly analyze whether the US has concerns or dissatisfaction with Thailand, to address the issues accurately. It is also important to review whether Thailand’s past stance and communication contributed to misunderstandings or displeasure, and what actions were taken after Thailand faced high tariffs.
“From my experience negotiating with the US, I believe there is no fundamental problem between Thailand and the US, but rather issues with negotiation methods and the negotiation team. The Cobra Gold case especially calls for a careful review of the negotiation process. Therefore, if problems lie with the team, consideration should be given to changing it to enhance negotiation effectiveness and resolve tax issues without harming the long-standing relationship.”
Mr. Pichai added that it is crucial for Thailand to clearly separate trade issues from security concerns, and to leverage the strong US-Thai relationship as a strength in negotiations, in order to safeguard national interests and maintain Thailand’s geopolitical balance on the global stage.