Thailand's export growth is expected to reach 1%-2% this year, despite a 1% drop in shipments last year. Customs-cleared exports have continued to rise, reaching 10% annually, outperforming a Reuters poll forecast of 8.8%. Despite the positive export figures, Thailand's trade deficit of $2.76 billion in January exceeded the forecasted $1.54 billion deficit. Rice export volumes rose significantly by 17.6% annually in January, highlighting the country's crucial role in global food supply chains. However, the Bank of Thailand warns that the export sector has lost competitiveness over the past two decades. (ICE BANGKOK)

Fonte notizia: Thailand Business News