THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM

Despite enjoying healthy GDP growth in the first quarter, the Thai economy could sag for the remainder of 2025 as American tariffs affect exporters and the US-China trade war disrupts the world economy, write Wichit Chantanusornsiri and Phusadee Arunmas

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Thailand's economy appears to be stable, with GDP growing by 3.1% in the first quarter of the year, marking the third consecutive quarter with growth of more than 3%.

In addition, the value of Thai exports in the first quarter rose by 15%, the highest growth in 13 quarters.

But beneath this calm surface, the US-China trade war is casting a shadow over the global economy, causing uncertainty in trade and economic conditions.

"In the period ahead, trade and investment conditions are expected to become more volatile. As a result, the Thai economy may face a slowdown," Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), said.