Citi Thailand Economic Outlook 2025 Highlights Investment Appeal Despite Weak Growth

Citi Thailand economic outlook 2025 remains positive for investment despite sluggish growth, according to Sue Lee, Citi’s Asia South markets head. Thailand’s new government faces weak consumer confidence and concerns that a strong baht could pressure exports and tourism, but Lee said the country’s infrastructure and location keep it attractive for manufacturing investment. She noted that U.S. tariff cuts announced in August brought Thai rates in line with regional peers, easing earlier worries. Citi forecasts Thai GDP growth of 2.2% in 2025 and 1.6% in 2026. Despite volatility, Lee said investor appetite for emerging Asia is rising, with demand for derivatives and risk management tools climbing. She added that by 2026 more clarity will emerge on integrating artificial intelligence and cryptocurrencies into financial services, alongside supply chain diversification.