Chinese New Year spending tipped to rise 5%Shoppers make purchases for Chinese New Year celebrations at a market in Bangkok's Yaowarat district. Some 43% of respondents plan to honour Chinese gods and offer sacrificial items to their ancestors. One-third intend to buy only necessary items, while one-fifth will reduce their spending compared with the previous year. The survey found more than half of respondents view the economy as worse or much worse than during the same time last year. This reflects concerns among Thais about economic conditions and the need for a clear long-term strategy for sustainable economic growth, he said.

Source: Bangkok Post February 12, 2026 02:01 UTC