Thailand's economy grew just 2.8% in the first quarter of this year, its slowest rate since the end of 2014, due largely to a drop in exports and public investment.
The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) released the latest gross domestic product (GDP) figures yesterday.
In the first quarter, GDP rose 2.8% year-on-year, down from 3.6% in the fourth quarter of 2018. The slowdown has forced the NESDC to cut its GDP growth forecast this year while the central bank is considering following suit.
Growth was supported by expansion of consumer spending, private investment and increased government expenditure, although exports declined.
The agriculture and electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply sectors also picked up, while the manufacturing, wholesale and retail, accommodation and food services, transportation and construction sectors softened.
