Thailand's apparel exports show moderate growth

Thailand’s clothing exports are expected to rise by up to 5% in 2015 and around 2-3% this year to almost US$3bn. The projection is based on the loss of tax privileges for clothing exports to the EU early next year coupled with deflation in its member countries, while recovery in the US remains a concern.

However, the loss of the tax waiver is not expected to create a huge impact on the Thai clothing sector as the EU only waived 2.4% of the tariff from the normal tariff rate of 12%.

On the positive side, exporters are expected to benefit from ASEAN integration and rising demand for Thai products in Japan under its policy to rely less on imported goods from China and waiver on import tariff under the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement.

For the full story, see the November 2014 edition of Textiles South East Asia. Not a subscriber? Sign up HERE