BANGKOK, Thailand – TMBThanachart Bank (TTB) has advised Thai entrepreneurs to prepare for global economic uncertainty, emphasizing that exchange rate fluctuations and global trade dynamics, particularly in the Asian markets, will be key challenges in the coming year.
At the “TTB I Global Trade & FX Forum”, held under the theme “The Future of Asia: Economic Trends and Trade Challenges for Thailand 2025,” business leaders and experts discussed potential strategies to navigate these complex economic conditions.
Sarun Phuphat, Chief Business Officer at TTB, highlighted that geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, and climate change continue to pose major risks to the global economy. He noted that China’s influence on global supply chains and trade opportunities remains significant. Any policy shifts in China could directly impact international businesses, especially as Asia remains a high-growth market. He urged Thai businesses to stay informed and adapt quickly to these changes to maintain competitiveness.
Naris Sathaphondecha, Head of Data and Analytics at TTB, projected Thailand’s GDP growth at 3% for 2025, up from 2.6% in 2024, but warned of high household debt levels that could limit domestic consumption. He pointed out three key trends affecting global trade. These are the shift towards emerging markets — or “Deglobalization” –, the rising impact of trade decoupling with China, and the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.
The forum concluded with recommendations for policymakers to support local businesses by stabilizing exchange rates, managing trade deficits with China, and ensuring that investment in strategic sectors continues to grow. (NNT)
