Vessels near Bangkok Port of Thailand (Photo: Reuters)The driving forcebehind the export growth was agricultural products, especially fruits likedurian and mangosteen as well as rice, which saw a surge in demand inSub-Saharan Africa and Indonesia. Demand for high-tech products likesolar cells and mobile phones was also high, said Keerati Ruschano, Permanent Secretaryof the Commerce Ministry.
In contrast, imports droppedby 8.3%, resulting in a trade surplus of 2.09 billion USD.
He noted theglobal manufacturing sector remained contracted in September, and recovery ofmain markets has yet to gain momentum. Geopolitical tension and prolonged highinterest rates have also cast a shadow over global economic prospects.
Key export marketslike China, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and South Asiacontinue showing signs of expansion though uncertainty remains due to globaleconomic pressures.
Keerati expressedoptimism about the export trend in upcoming months. Moreover, stabilityin food supply and heightened demand from the service and tourism sectorsduring the holiday season are expected to boost the export of agricultural andfood products.
There are also plenty of growth opportunities in the realm ofindustrial goods in line with digital technology and clean energy trends, he said.
The Thai CommerceMinistry has collaborated closely with the private sector to promote tradeactivities, negotiate trade pacts, and monitor and respond to new risks arisingfrom the Israel - Hamas conflict, which could have far-reaching implicationsfor global trends in the future, the official added./.
VNA
