The Thai Rubber Association (TRA) and Thai Latex Association (TLA) co-hosted our first joint annual dinner on Friday, 9 May 2025, under the theme "Celebration in Unity" at the Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok. The event brought together more than 1,000 esteemed guests, including business leaders, industry stakeholders, and representatives from both the public and private sectors, domestically and internationally. It was our great honor to welcome Dr. Perk Lertwangpong, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Rubber Authority of Thailand, who delivered the opening address, highlighting the following key matters:

In 2025, the global economy is expected to slow due to rising inflation, increasing production costs, high interest rates, the strengthening of the US dollar, and geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the return of US President Donald Trump, with his 'Make America Great Again' policy focused on protecting US trade interests, may disrupt supply chains between Thailand and China, particularly with US tariffs on China. Global warming and the outbreak of rubber leaf fall disease have also led to a significant slowdown in agricultural production, further impacting the rubber industry. 

In 2025, rubber entrepreneurs will face heightened risks from more frequent and severe climate change impacts, along with challenges in adapting to stricter global climate regulations. These include the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the EU Deforestation-Free Products Regulation (EUDR), which is set to take effect in early 2026. All sectors must prepare to navigate various trade regulations to ensure the sustainability of natural rubber. As part of the Thai government's efforts to support agriculture, several key priorities have been set: 1. Strengthening the skills and capacity of farmers and agricultural institutions; 2. Encouraging environmentally friendly farming practices through initiatives like the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) model, Carbon Credit programs, and compliance with EUDR and CBAM regulations; 3. Enhancing preparedness and response to natural disasters; and 4. Preventing the smuggling of illegal agricultural products.

The successful organization of the Annual Dinner 2025 was made possible by the outstanding cooperation of both government and private sectors, domestically and internationally. I would like to especially acknowledge the dedicated efforts of the committee, members, the event organizing committee, and the association staff. On behalf of the Thai Rubber Association, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved and sincerely hope this event will further strengthen the strong relationship between rubber producers and users.

Mr. Veerasith Sinchareonkul

President

The Thai Rubber Association