Thailand's economy expanded less than expected in the third quarter on slower consumption and public spending, but early signs of an export recovery has raised hopes for stronger growth ahead. The pace slightly lagged the revised 0.7% in the second quarter, and the 0.7% forecast in a Reuters poll. From a year earlier, growth was 3.2%, down from 3.5% in the second quarter and against the poll's median of 3.4% growth for July-September. Annual growth in public investment and household spending slowed in the September quarter while private investment contracted, the NESDB statement said. Thailand's economy has lagged behind regional peers and may fall prey to capital outflows on the prospect of higher US interest rates.

Source: Bangkok Post November 21, 2016 04:21 UTC