Thai Prime Minister Optimizes GDP Forecast for 2026 Amid Stronger Investment and Export Signals

Key summary

On October 24, 2025 (B.E. 2569), Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that Thailand's economy is projected to grow faster than the original 2.1% estimate for 2026, citing improved foreign investment, exports, employment, and tax revenue. He directed the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) to re-evaluate GDP calculation methods and data to reflect current realities, noting that foreign investment in the first half of 2026 was approximately 30% higher than the full year of 2025, while exports grew by over 20%. The Prime Minister emphasized that accurate economic data is crucial for investor confidence and financial costs, outlining a strategy to shift from competing on low labor costs to leveraging infrastructure, logistics, and regional supply chain connectivity. He also highlighted upcoming trade agreements with the US, Europe, UAE, and Central Asia, as well as hosting the 2026 IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Bangkok.