Thailand's Ministry of Finance published its October 2026 Thailand Regional Economic Sentiment Index (RSI), indicating expectations of economic expansion across all regions over the following six months. The south and northeast led the outlook, with services expected to benefit from the tourism season and extended holiday periods. All regional readings exceeded 50, signaling expectations of improvement from current conditions. The south registered 72.5, supported by tourism and demand for industrial goods, while the northeast recorded 72.2, with tourism and upcoming agricultural harvests expected to support local spending. In the east, the index stood at 69.0, while the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) recorded 66.9. Private investment in the EEC, government investment incentives and infrastructure development supported the eastern outlook, alongside anticipated demand for technology and electronics. Risks to the outlook include heat and drought linked to El Niño, global economic uncertainty and international conflicts. High production costs, energy costs and living expenses could also weigh on business confidence.
Thailand's Ministry of Finance reports positive regional economic outlook led by the south and northeast
Thailand's Ministry of Finance reported expectations of economic expansion across all regions over the next six months in its October 2026 regional sentiment index. The south and northeast led with readings of 72.5 and 72.2, respectively, supported mainly by tourism and services, while investment and industry underpinned the eastern outlook. El Niño heat and drought, global uncertainty and high costs remained risks to business sentiment.