Exports surge 17.8% to reach 3-year high of $29.5bn in March

Thai exports rose for a ninth straight month in March and exceeded expectations, reaching the highest level in three years, although steep US tariffs remain a concern, says the Commerce Ministry.

- PHUSADEE ARUNMAS

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said exports surged by 17.8% year-on-year to US$29.5 billion in March, setting a new record in terms of value.

Exports from the real sector excluding gold, oil-related products, and weaponry increased last month by 15% year-on-year.

The primary driver of this growth was the industrial sector, particularly exports to key markets such as the US, China and the EU.

Mr Pichai said these trading partners have seen an acceleration in manufacturing activity as they sought to mitigate risks from the US tariff hikes. This led to a surge in import demand aimed at stabilising production supply chains and mitigating potential cost and price increases in the future.