Thailand economy bolstered by domestic demand

Not bugged down: Local demand has helped fill voids left by a lagging export market, a positive sign such as this cricket farming initiative in Chiang Mai, Thailand. — Bloomberg

Bangkok: Thailand’s economy grew at a faster pace in the fourth quarter than the previous three months, as local demand helped to offset a slide in exports.

Gross domestic product rose 3.7% from a year ago, up from a revised 3.2% in the third quarter, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) said.