Thailand, branded the “sick man of Asia”: how much hope can a new government deliver?

Bhumjaithai Party won a stronger-than-expected general election victory, with coalition talks expected to start in the coming days. - The Nation/ANN

BANGKOK: Thailand is increasingly being described as the “sick man of Asia”, driven by a sharp slowdown in consumption, manufacturing and tourism—trends that are hitting household livelihoods and raising concerns about the country’s stability.

Thailand is grappling with low economic growth and an economic structure that is no longer keeping pace with today’s development needs. The Ministry of Finance has forecast GDP growth of just 2.2% in 2025 and 2.0% in 2026.