Bangkok, Sept. 15 -- The Kasikorn Research Centre has maintained its forecast for Thailand's economy in 2026 at 2%, according to the local media.

It anticipates that the Thai economy will slow down in the second half of the year compared to the first half, with the "Thai Chuay Thai Plus" initiative offering some support to consumption in Q3 2026.

However, the Thai economy still faces risks from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, uncertainties surrounding US trade measures, and the El Nino phenomenon, which could pressure inflation to rise in Q4 2026. The average inflation rate for 2026 is expected to be 1.8%, while the Bank of Thailand is likely to maintain the policy interest rate at 1%.

The Thai Government is considering the ex...