BANGKOK (Reuters) – Thailand’s economy may grow as forecast this year, helped by public consumption and investment after the formation of a new government, Deputy Finance Minister Krisada Chinavicharana said on Friday.
Private consumption and tourism recovery are also helping, he told a business event. The ministry has forecast economic growth of 3.5% this year.
The new government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is also finance minister, is seeking to revive Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy and deliver on key campaign promises after an election in May.
The government is due to deliver its policy statement to parliament on Monday.
Thailand’s economy grew 1.8% in the April-June period on the year and 0.2% on the quarter, sharply slowing from the previous quarter’s 2.6% and 1.7%, respectively, as weak exports and lower investments undercut strength in tourism.
(Reporting by Kitiphong Thaichareon; Writing by Orathai Sriring; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
