Thai exports to rise 12.5pc next year

Thailand's exports, the main pillar of the kingdom's economy, are expected to grow by 12.5 percent next year on the back of steady global demand, the commerce ministry said Friday.
"We have forecast our exports will rise between 10 and 12.5 percent next year and generate around 165-169 billion dollars," Commerce Minister Krik-krai Jirapaet told reporters.
Exports, which account for 60 percent of the Thai economy, will continue to grow thanks to strong demand from the country's key markets including the United States, Japan and the European Union, the minister said.
Thailand is the world's biggest exporter of rice and also a major producer of cars, textiles, electrical appliances, fruit and shrimp.