BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s exports soared by 14% in February 2025, reaching a value of $26.7 billion, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced.
This marks the eighth consecutive month of growth and a significant increase from January’s 13.6% rise. The strong performance pushes the average export growth for the first two months of 2025 to an impressive 13.8%, totaling $51.98 billion.
Minister Pichai emphasized that exports are a crucial driver of Thailand’s economy. The government has set a target of achieving over 3% economic growth, with exports playing a key role. The current export figures are a positive sign, and continued growth is anticipated due to increased investment.
Thailand saw a record 1.13 trillion baht in investment promotion applications last year, with many factories, particularly in the printed circuit board (PCB) industry, nearing completion and preparing for export production.
Tourism is another bright spot, with 36 million visitors in the past year and projections of 39-40 million this year. However, Minister Pichai acknowledged that household debt remains a significant challenge to economic stability. The government is committed to addressing this issue to ensure sustainable growth, with the potential to reach 5-6% expansion.
Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, added that agricultural and agro-industrial exports grew by 3.9%, with key products like para rubber, sugar, and processed chicken showing strong performance.
Imports also increased, primarily consisting of capital goods and intermediate goods for future production and exports, indicating positive long-term economic prospects. (TNA)
