Capital City: Bangkok
	It is %T:%M %A in Bangkok

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Economic trends

Thailand's economical (as well as political) situation remains highly uncertain following the military coup on 19th September 2006, though it is unlikely that the county would go through major policy changes. Thailand’s economy is mainly driven by the manufacturing sector. Since 2005, the GDP growth rate varies from 4% to 5% depending of the years. Thailand suffers from the emerging competition in the manufacturing sector from China besides rise in global oil prices. Inflation is decreased to 2% in 2007. The financial sector is still fragile as it has not still recovered completely from the 1997-98 Asian financial crises.

Main branches of industry

The economy is heavily agriculture based contributing nearly 10% to GDP and employs more than 50% of the active population. Thailand is one of the leading producers and exporters of rice. Other major crops are rubber, sugar, corn, jute, cotton, and tobacco. Fishing is an important activity - Thailand is a major exporter of farmed shrimp. Tin, by far the most valuable mineral, is a major export item. Thailand has substantial potential for hydroelectric power generation. The manufacturing sector amounts to nearly 46% of the GDP and is well diversified: electronics, automotive and steel industries are driving the economy. Thailand is a hub for assembly of well known international car brands. The textile sector employs almost 25% of the active population but is no longer a buoyant sector as compared to tourism which has become the main source of foreign exchange. The services sector (includes tourism) contributes nearly 43% to the GDP.

International trade

Thailand is very much open to international trade and is an active member of ASEAN. The share of foreign trade in country’s GDP has reached more than 150%. The top three export partners of the country are: the USA, Japan and China. The commodities mainly exported are electric & electronic equipment, machinery, vehicles, rubber, and plastics. The top three import partners are: Japan, China and the USA. Thailand mainly imports electric and electronic equipment, mineral fuels & oils, machinery, iron & steel, and plastics. Thailand is also a major trans-shipment point for illicit heroin and has become a drug money-laundering centre.