Orathai Sriring

Thailand's economy is expected to grow 2.8% this year, the top end of a previous forecast range of 2.6% to 2.8%, helped by stronger exports and government spending, a leading joint business group said on Wednesday.

There is room for a rate cut in Thailand as inflation is low though it is ultimately the central bank's decision, the finance minister said on Tuesday as he reiterated his call for monetary and fiscal policy to work together to support the economy.

Malaysia and Thailand are facing a second wave of heavy rain and potential flooding this week, authorities said on Monday, even as some displaced residents were able to return home and the worst floods in decades began receding in some areas.

Thailand's economy improved in October due to tourism, exports and private consumption, which was helped by government stimulus measures, the central bank said on Friday as it reiterated last month's rate cut was not the start of an easing cycle.

Thailand's exports grew in October at the fastest pace in three months, beating analysts' forecasts, as the commerce ministry anticipated strong final-quarter growth would see its full-year target surpassed.

The Lao government is "profoundly saddened" by the deaths of foreign tourists from drinking alcohol contaminated with methanol and pledged to prosecute those responsible.

The second phase of Thailand's "digital wallet" handout scheme will be launched in January and distribute 40 billion baht ($1.16 billion) among 4 million people to help boost consumption, officials said on Tuesday.

Thailand's economy beat forecasts with its fastest growth in two years in the July-September quarter due to stronger investment, tourism and exports, but officials and analysts saw increased challenges to maintaining the momentum next year.

Thailand is targeting economic growth of 3.5% in 2025 after 2.7% growth seen this year, and the government will soon consider more stimulus measures and the rollout of phase two of its $14 billion handout scheme, the finance minister said on Wednesday.

More than 800 leading Thai economists, including four former governors of the Bank of Thailand, warned on Saturday of political interference in selecting the central bank's board chairman, saying it could damage long-term economic stability.