Thailand's customs-cleared exports rose 24.3% in August from a year earlier, driven by strong shipments to the United States and continuing demand for electronics, the Commerce Ministry said on Friday 25 September 2026.
The increase was slightly below the 24.9% rise forecast by analysts in a Reuters poll, but followed export growth of 21.6% in the previous month.
Imports increased by 25.1% year-on-year in August. Thailand recorded a trade deficit of $2.48 billion during the month, smaller than the $3.9 billion deficit forecast by analysts.
US shipments jump nearly 49%
Exports to the United States, Thailand's largest export market, climbed 48.7% from a year earlier in August, according to the ministry.
Shipments to China rose 15.5% over the same period.
The figures underline the importance of overseas markets to Thailand's manufacturing and export industries, particularly at a time when global demand for technology-related products remains strong.
Electronics demand supports outlook
Natiya Suchinda, deputy director-general of the ministry's Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said exports were expected to keep rising until the end of the year.
She said demand for electronics linked to global artificial intelligence trends was providing support for Thai exports.
Ms Natiya said exports could expand by 15% this year.
Electronics have become an increasingly important part of Thailand's export base, alongside the country's established manufacturing supply chains.
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26 September 2026
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