Thai Household Monthly Spending Rises to 21,217 Baht in First Nine Months of 2026 Amid Energy Costs

Key summary

The Office of Trade Policy and Strategy reports that average Thai household monthly expenses reached 21,217 baht during the first nine months of 2026, an increase from 20,891 baht in the same period last year. This rise is primarily driven by higher costs for vehicles, transport, and communication due to global fuel prices, as well as processed food items following production and logistics costs. While housing expenses decreased slightly due to lower electricity rates, households are shifting towards ready-made meals and delaying non-essential purchases like clothing and alcohol to manage liquidity.