Thailand's GDP grows 2.8% in first quarter of 2026

Thailand's economy expanded by 2.8% in the first quarter of 2026, accelerating from 2.5% in the previous quarter, according to the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

Government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul welcomed the latest GDP figures, saying they reflected a continued economic recovery and showed the government was on the right track in addressing economic challenges.

According to the NESDC report, the agricultural sector expanded by 1.2% in the first quarter, up from 0.6% in the previous quarter. The non-agricultural sector grew by 3.0%, compared with 2.7% in the fourth quarter of 2025.

On the expenditure side, private consumption continued to expand steadily, while government spending, fixed investment and exports of goods and services also accelerated.

Private investment rose by 10.1%, up from 6.5% in the previous quarter, driven by increased investment in machinery, equipment and construction.

Exports to key markets including the United States, Europe and ASEAN countries expanded, while exports to Japan and the Middle East declined.

Rachada said the government was preparing to explore new export markets in Africa and the Middle East to diversify risks and create new opportunities for Thai businesses.

She added that the government would introduce measures to reduce production costs for farmers and low-income groups, while stimulating local economies nationwide.

Measures under the Emergency Loan Decree would help ease living costs and support economic growth through projects such as the "Thais Help Thais" scheme and energy sector restructuring aimed at strengthening Thailand's long-term energy security, she said.

The government remains confident that Thailand's economic growth in 2026 will meet its target of around 2%, Rachada added.