2025.08.2507:38:40UTC+00Thailand Unexpectedly Posts Trade Surplus in July

In an unexpected turn, Thailand achieved a trade surplus of USD 0.32 billion in July 2025, a reversal from the USD 0.50 billion deficit recorded during the same month the previous year, and exceeding market predictions of a USD 0.50 billion deficit. This positive shift was attributed to exports outpacing imports. Exports rose by 11.0% compared to the previous year, albeit slightly down from a 15.5% increase in June, yet still surpassing the anticipated 9.6% growth. Notably, July marked the 13th consecutive month of export expansion, fueled by accelerated shipments in anticipation of a possible 36% U.S. tariff, scheduled for implementation on August 1, subject to trade negotiations. Shipments to the United States notably surged by 31.4%. Meanwhile, imports experienced a 5.1% year-on-year increase, decelerating from a 13.1% rise in June but slightly exceeding the expected 4.9% growth. Cumulatively, for the first seven months of 2025, Thailand recorded a trade surplus of USD 259.9 million, with exports and imports increasing by 14.4% and 10.6%, respectively.