The International Monetary Fund has forecast that global trade will grow by 7.6 per cent next year compared to 8.9 per cent this year, while the global economy will expand by 4.9 per cent compared to 5.1 per cent this year.

Slower growth is predicted for most of Thailand's major trading partners. 

The US economy is forecast to grow 2.9 per cent next year compared to 3.1 per cent this year, the Japanese economy is expected to grow 2.1 per cent compared to 2.7 per cent, and the economy of the EU is forecast to grow 2 per cent compared to 2.4 per cent.

In light of these forecasts, the Export Promotion Department has sketched plans to overcome trade barriers and boost exports through the efforts of Thai trade offices around the world.

Although the ministry has not announced an export target for next year, it has said it aims for 17.5 per cent growth, which would put the target at about US$130 billion.

Rachane Potjanasuntorn, director-general of the department, said trade offices overseas should focus on eliminating trade barriers and protecting beneficial trade relationships.

"Our trading partners are launching obstacles to protect their industries, particularly in the food sector," he said.

Surasak Riangkrul, director of the Thai Trade Centre in New York, said despite slowing growth in the US economy, Thailand is expected to achieve export growth of 15 per cent next year.

He said his office is planning to meet with US government agencies, leading importers and the trade associations of individual states to discuss reducing barriers to Thai imports.

Vuthichai Duangratana, Thailand's commerce ambassador to France, said his office was trying to forge connections with leading French stores to promote Thai goods directly to consumers.

Commerce Ministry permanent secretary Karun Kittisataporn said the ministry has set up a committee to link provincial governments with overseas trade offices.

Additionally, Karun said the ministry has called for all overseas trade offices to draw up a plan to promote exports in accordance with the government's sufficiency economy policy. Under the policy, trade will be based on liberalisation and ethics, Karun said.

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

The Nation