BANGKOK: Thailand’s economy could grow as much as 4% this year, which would be the fastest rate in five years, bolstered by a rebound in the tourism sector and increased domestic consumption, the deputy prime minister says.

Anticipated new investment will also help, Supattanapong Punmeechaow, who is in charge of economic affairs, told a seminar.

“The economy will definitely be better than last year ... despite some impact from energy prices,” he said.

“Today the economic situation is in recovery and will soon return to normal,” he said, adding that foreign tourist arrivals were expected at more than 20 million this year.

Thailand’s economic recovery has lagged that of other South-East Asian nations, with the crucial tourism sector just starting to rebound last year with 11.15 million foreign tourist arrivals.

Last week, the finance ministry maintained its 2023 economic growth forecast at 3.8%, but cut its 2022 growth estimate to 3% from 3.4% as exports weakened.

The government will report official 2022 gross domestic product data on Feb 17.

 - Reuters