Thailand’s exports rose 24% year-on-year to a record-related value of US$38.44 billion (THB1.25 trillion) in September 2026, extending their growth streak to 27 consecutive months, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).
The outbound figure was higher than a 17.9% increase forecasted by economists. Excluding oil-related products, gold and military equipment, exports expanded 28.2%, driven primarily by accelerating shipments of electronics. As a participant in global electronics supply chains, Thailand has benefited from rising demand for the sector.
Exports of high-potential agricultural and food products also grew strongly, including natural rubber, fresh and frozen chicken, pet food, and fresh durians, mangosteens and longans. However, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz continued to affect markets in the Middle East.
Imports surged 50.4% to a record US$44.30 billion (THB1.46 trillion) in September, resulting in a trade deficit of US$5.86 billion, equivalent to THB290.40 billion. The figure marked a significant jump compared to 25.1% in August and also beating a 31.3% growth by the markets.
For the first nine months of 2026, exports totaled US$304.59 billion (THB9.76 trillion), up 19.6% year-on-year. Imports rose 37.8% to US$348.28 billion (THB11.30 trillion), leaving Thailand with a cumulative trade deficit of US$43.69 billion, or approximately THB1.54 trillion.
TPSO identified electronics exports as a key driver of growth, supported by global investment in technology, artificial intelligence and data centers. Electronics and electrical appliances have continued to post strong growth, while the United States remained Thailand’s largest export market, accounting for 26.5% of total exports.
For the full year, TPSO projects export growth of 15%–16% in 2026, while noting that growth could reach 19%. Under the stronger-growth scenario, exports would total approximately US$404.88 billion, setting a new record.
