Thailand's total export in 2017 broke a record high at 9.9 percent, while that for 2018 is expected to remain between five and seven percent (Photo: nwnt.prd.go.th)Thailand's total export in 2017 broke a record high at 9.9 percent, while that for 2018 is expected to remain between five and seven percent.
Trade Policy and Strategy Office Director-General Pimchanok Vonkorpon revealed last year's overall export has shown a 9.9 percent growth, which is the highestin six years, with the total export value amounting to 236.69 billion dollars, and the total import value accounting for 222.76 billion dollars.
The export in December 2017, amounting to 19.74 billion dollars, showed the growth for the 10th consecutive year at 8.6 percent in all major export markets, including the United States, the European Union, ASEAN, and China.
The agency expects Thailand's total export in 2018 to expand by five to seven percent, or between 248.53-253.26 billion dollars, provided that the economy will be expanded by four percent, that the baht currency will amount to 32-34 baht per one US dollar, and that the crude oil price will rise to 55.65 US dollars per barrel.
The projection is based on the recovery of the global economy, as well as the rising oil prices which will contribute to the increased prices of agricultural products and oil-related goods.
The Ministry of Commerce will hold a meeting of commercial attaches overseas during19 and 21 Februaryto review the situation, and to deliver policy related to the export promotion issue./.