Thai exports in September hit record 9-month period high

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Thai exports in September soared to their highest level in nine months, but fell by 8.5 per cent year-on-year, according to the Commerce Ministry. …

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Thai exports in September hit record 9-month period high

Thailand continues to reduce import tariff rates for various products.
Imports from new ASEAN member countries also have lower import duties. As part of ASEAN Integration System of Preferences (AISP), tariffs of products such as vinegar, chili, certain vegetables, wood products, and electronic switchboards imported from Cambodia, Myanmar and Lao PDR are either reduced or abolished from September 2008.

Exports contracted 25% year to year in July

Thai exports in September hit record 9-month period high

The government also uses tariff measures as a tool to promote energy policy. To encourage the use of natural gas as an alternative fuel for vehicles, the government has exempted import duties of many natural gas-related tools and equipment such as bio-fuel conversion kits, natural gas containers, and chasses.

External stability in Thailand was upheld by high international reserves, while trade and current account were close to balance. Regarding internal stability, inflation rose from last year in line with higher oil prices, despite a downward trend during the second half of the year. Unemployment rate remained low in Thailand in 2008 but employment started to deteriorate in the forth quarter, particularly in the production sector affected by economic slowdown.