(March 5): Thailand’s nearly yearlong stretch of falling consumer prices may now provide a buffer against potential energy-driven inflation spike. With tensions in the Middle East threatening to lift global oil prices and pushing inflation in many economies above targets, Thailand’s negative inflation and muted core readings could help cushion the impact. Over the past year, softer energy prices have kept overall inflation below the Bank of Thailand’s target range of 1%-3%. If global oil prices remain in the US$80 (RM315.60) to US$120 per barrel range, inflation this year could quicken to between 1% and 3%, he said. Higher oil prices would raise costs for prepared foods and other consumer goods, adding upward pressure on prices, Nantapong said.

Source: The Edge Markets March 05, 2026 05:17 UTC