NONTHABURI, Nov 20 (TNA) — The Commerce Ministry plans to join forces with the private sector to increase exports by at least 8% next year, targeting especially Southeast Asian markets.
Banjongjitt Angsusingh, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion, said the prolonged trade conflict between China and the United States and export slowdowns were the challenges facing the Commerce Ministry and it would thus cooperate with other governmental organizations and the private sector to realize the 8 per cent export growth target next year.
That means the overall export value of US$276.01 billion throughout the year or at least US$23 billion a month. If all parties join forces, the target will be achieved, she said.
Ms Banjongjitt said the global economy would grow by 3.7 per cent next year and major Thai products and services remained attractive to global and potential markets.
She expected export growth of 8.2-8.3 per cent for Southeast Asia, 12 per cent for China and Hong Kong and 7 per cent for East Asia. She also saw growth potential with India.
Exports dropped in September because of concerns about the US-China trade spat, currency fluctuations and oil prices. When the trade war was later relieved, the 2018 export growth of 8 per cent should be realized, Ms Banjongjitt said. (TNA)
