Aat Pisawanich, director of Centre for International Trade Studies at University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said that, based on a recent study, Thai export is forecast to rise 6.3 per cent to US$252.56 billion, a third straight rise from 2016 but at a slower level from last year's. At the best case for continued robust expansion of the global economy, particularly China and developed economies, Thai export growth could reach 7.9 per cent this year, he said. Meanwhile, risks exist with the United States' consideration to use trade measures to respond the countries the US has faced trade deficits with. However, if the baht depreciates more than its regional peers and trade partners and the global crude prices rise, boosting costs with the US interest rate's hikes which may affect the Thai currency, these will be negative to Thai exports," she said. Vietnam has taken development of products and quality with lower prices."

Source: The Nation Bangkok January 16, 2018 11:37 UTC