Thai Q2 GDP thumps forecasts, but Covid-19 hampers recovery

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BANGKOK: Thailand's economy unexpectedly grew in the second quarter from the first helped by exports and government spending, but spiking COVID-19 cases continue to batter domestic activity and tourism, restraining its fragile recovery.

The government cut its 2021 economic growth forecast to 0.7-1.2% from 1.5-2.5%, the third time it has done so, as it battles to contain its biggest COVID-19 outbreak amid a slow vaccination rollout. The economy slumped 6.1% last year.