IMF Staff Country Reports

Thailand : 2018 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Thailand

Author/Editor:

International Monetary Fund. Asia and Pacific Dept

Publication Date:

June 4, 2018

Electronic Access:

Free Full Text. Use the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this PDF file

Summary:

This 2018 Article IV Consultation highlights a cyclical recovery that is underway in Thailand but is not yet broad-based. GDP growth is estimated at 3.9 percent in 2017, boosted by strong tourism services and manufacturing exports. Domestic demand remained sluggish amid structural challenges, and export gains failed to trickle down to household incomes and investments in other sectors. Headline inflation averaged 0.7 percent, below the target band for the third year in a row, reflecting low food prices and weak core inflation. The current account surplus remained large, at about 10.6 percent of GDP. Financial system stability continued to strengthen. The growth momentum is expected to continue in 2018 and 2019, supported by sustained export dynamism.

Series:

Country Report No. 18/143

Subject:

Article IV consultation reports Debt sustainability analysis Economic indicators Fiscal policy Fiscal reforms Inflation targeting Macroprudential policies and financial stability Monetary policy Press releases Staff reports Surveillance Technical Assistance