There have been positive signs of a strong recovery in the Thai economy since 2024, mainly driven by exports, tourism, and investment projects, despite lingering household and informal debt issues.
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan updated reporters last week on the national economic outlook following discussions with leading private entities, including the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand.
Pichai noted that Thai exports grew by 5.4% year-on-year in 2024 and further expanded by 13.6% in January 2025, while international tourist arrivals reached approximately 36 million in 2024 and are expected to rise to 39 million in 2025.
He said domestic investment projects expanded by 1.14% in 2024, with a steady upward trend in 2025.
He also highlighted the growth of two-way trade with partners under various free trade agreements (FTAs), which is expected to further boost Thai exports.
Meanwhile, the minister called for integrated and immediate action from all relevant parties to address the problem of non-performing loans (NPLs) caused by household and informal debt, aiming to stimulate consumer spending, domestic investment, exports, and overall economic growth.
