ITD Highlights UNCTAD Report Ranking Thailand No.1 in Export Diversity Across the Global South

The International Institute for Trade and Development (Public Organisation), or ITD, has cited findings from the UNCTAD Trade and Development Report 2025 indicating that Thailand ranks first in export product diversity among economies in the Global South, underscoring the country’s resilience amid rising global trade uncertainty.

According to ITD Director Mr. Suphakit Charoenkul, (คุณสุภกิจ เจริญกุล )developing economies in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, are facing heightened risks stemming from shifting global trade policies and escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly the increasing use of tariffs as trade restrictions. Despite these challenges, ASEAN continues to demonstrate economic strength and remains a vital link in global supply chains.

UNCTAD projects that global economic growth will slow to 2.6 percent in 2025 and 2026. Nevertheless, developing economies—especially ASEAN—are expected to maintain positive momentum, with growth forecast at 4.3 percent in 2025 and 4.2 percent in 2026, positioning the region as a key driver of the global economy.

ITD noted that Thailand’s top ranking on UNCTAD’s Trade Product Diversity Index, with a score of 1.02, reflects its broad-based export structure spanning agriculture, manufacturing, and higher value-added processed goods—the most diversified among developing economies. This diversity provides Thailand with a significant strategic advantage, helping cushion the impact of tariff shocks and global financial volatility.

While Thailand may face additional tariffs of around 10 percent—considered relatively low compared with other targeted economies—ITD emphasized that diversified products and markets enable Thai exporters to adjust swiftly by redirecting trade to alternative destinations, strengthening risk management and adaptability.

The report also highlights emerging risks, particularly from the growing “financialisation” of agriculture and food markets, which has contributed to price volatility affecting farmers. In addition, it notes that early 2025 export growth driven by pre-emptive shipments ahead of tariff changes is likely to subside, potentially reinforcing a broader global trade slowdown.
Looking ahead, ITD stressed opportunities in services trade and the green economy, urging ASEAN to enhance digital infrastructure and deepen regional cooperation. ITD added that Thailand’s hosting of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings in 2026 will provide a strategic platform to demonstrate leadership in advancing the Global South’s digital and green economic agenda.