The Bank of Thailand assesses that the Thai economy in the second quarter of 2026 slowed and is likely to be the lowest point of the year before gradually recovering in the second half. Assistant Governor and Bank of Thailand spokesperson Chayawadee Chai-Anant stated that despite facing a near-perfect storm from high energy prices and travel restrictions due to the Middle East war, there is still support from the global electronics upcycle and government measures. The tourism sector slowed due to a decline in foreign tourists, especially from the Middle East, Europe, and short-haul markets. Meanwhile, private consumption decelerated due to high living costs. Industrial production fell due to refinery maintenance shutdowns and a slowdown in the chemical industry. However, goods exports and private investment continued to expand, supported by technology products and data center investments. Headline inflation rose in line with energy prices, and the current account swung to a deficit due to higher energy imports. The labor market improved slightly, but the Bank of Thailand continues to monitor risks from slowing manufacturing employment.