Country Report Thailand September 2009

Summary

Thailand will remain politically unstable in 2009-10, as there will be no resolution to the country's protracted and multifaceted power struggle.
As well as contending with opposition groups, the prime minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, may struggle to retain the support of his partners in the coalition government. A general election could be held within the next year or so.
The government will attempt to support economic growth through an expansionary fiscal policy. However, it will face constraints owing to falling revenue in 2009. Monetary policy will remain accommodative.
The economy will shrink by 4.3% in 2009??

Highlights
Outlook for 2009-10: Domestic politics
Outlook for 2009-10: International relations
Outlook for 2009-10: Policy trends
Outlook for 2009-10: Fiscal policy
Outlook for 2009-10: Monetary policy
Outlook for 2009-10: In focus
Outlook for 2009-10: International assumptions
Outlook for 2009-10: Economic growth
Outlook for 2009-10: Inflation
Outlook for 2009-10: Exchange rates
Outlook for 2009-10: External sector
Outlook for 2009-10: Forecast summary
The political scene: Abhisit struggles to maintain his authority and support
The political scene: The UDD hands in a petition for a royal pardon for Thaksin
The political scene: Little progress is made in a national reconciliation effort
Economic policy: Abhisit seeks praise for the stimulus programme
Economic policy: The BOT keeps its policy rate on hold
Economic performance: The economy pulls out of recession, but remains weak
Economic performance: Manufacturing remains weak and unemployment rises
Data and charts: Annual data and forecast
Data and charts: Quarterly data
Data and charts: Monthly data
Data and charts: Annual trends charts
Data and charts: Monthly trends charts
Data and charts: Comparative economic indicators
Basic data
Political structure