ASIATODAY.ID, BANGKOK – Digital transformation can boost Thailand’s competitiveness, create jobs and drive longer term economic growth amid global uncertainty, according to the World Bank’s new Thailand Economic Monitor: Digital Pathways to Growth launched July 3, 2025.
Thailand’s annual GDP growth is expected to slow to 1.8 percent in 2025 and 1.7 percent in 2026, reflecting recent global trade policy shifts, weakening exports, slowing consumption and moderating tourism recovery. However, GDP growth could rise to 2.2 percent in 2025 and 1.8 percent in 2026 with improved investment sentiment.
“Despite global headwinds, strong performance in the first quarter of 2025 provided a temporary lift, largely thanks to accelerated exports ahead of trade policy uncertainty,” said Kiatipong Ariyapruchya, World Bank Senior Economist for Thailand.
“By maintaining macroeconomic stability, shifting towards efficient public investment, and pursuing deep trade partnerships, Thailand can take advantage of changing market dynamics.”
The report finds that digital technology can be a catalyst for growth and create more jobs, deliver better services and boost productivity in the face of uncertainty.
“As Thailand prepares to host the World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meetings in 2026, digital transformation is one of the flagship areas of discussion,” said Melinda Good, World Bank Division Director for Thailand and Myanmar. “The lead up to this global event is an opportunity to showcase key industries — digital services, green manufacturing, agribusiness, sustainable tourism — that shape Thailand’s future.”
Thailand’s digital economy is estimated to contribute around 6 percent of GDP and is the second largest in the ASEAN region. Financial services, digital payments, fintech, and software and engineering industries, have seen some of the fastest rates of job creation over the past decade.
Thailand can leverage its near-universal mobile internet coverage and digital public infrastructure that is among the region’s most advanced. Widespread use of digital ID and digital payment systems (such as ThaID and PromptPay) provide a strong base for financial inclusion and the expansion of digital government and e-commerce. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the e-commerce industry has grown at an annual average of 10 percent.
“Digital technology can open new markets, driving competitiveness and economic diversification,” said Jieun Choi, World Bank Senior Economist for Digital. “Thailand can unlock this potential by closing gaps in high quality data and computing infrastructure and boosting digital skills.”
The report outlines priority actions to accelerate digital adoption across sectors—from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and e-commerce to health and finance—and calls for coordinated policies to expand broadband, protect data and promote innovation. (AT Network)
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