Bangkok, July 9 -- Thailand is optimistic that it can finalise a trade deal with the US before the August 1 deadline to avoid a 36% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump, according to Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.

The Southeast Asian country has offered to cut import duties on most US goods to zero, expand access for US agricultural and industrial products, and increase purchases of energy and Boeing jets. It also pledged to reduce its 46 billion USD trade surplus with the US by 70% within five years.

Despite these efforts, a US letter issued July 8 maintained the 36% rate. Thai officials estimate the tariff can cut GDP by at least one percentage point this year.

Political instability is adding to investor concerns after ...