THAILAND AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY

1 _______ Thailand, for one, as a pillar of the fast growing Asian region, has made sure and steady
strides over the years to ensure its place in the global community.

2_______ A country often compared with the Philippines for a score of reasons, Thailand, like the
Philippines, is a nation of 60 million. It has an area of 513, 115sq.kms. and enjoys a climate typical of
countries in the tropics, thus, its traditional productivity for agrarian-based economic activity.

3_______ Notwithstanding, a shift from agriculture to manufacturing. Thailand continues to edge out
its neighbors in terms of natural resources, what with the bounty of its land and sea which has made it
the worlds foremost exporter of tapioca and rice. In addition, it is also a leader in the production of
maize, frozen shrimp, canned pineapple, natural rubber and sugar.

4_______ However, in the late 80’s and 90’s, Thailand restructured its economy to adapt to the
demands of an urbanizing international community.

5_______ As a result, the share of the agricultural sector in Thailand’s national income has declined
from a high of 40% in 1960 to 17% during early 90’s.

6_______ Concomitantly, the manufacturing sector experienced strong growth, expanding rapidly in its
share of the national income from 13% in 1960 to over 30% in the 90’s. With the implementation of
the first industrial Promotion Act in 1960 and various promotional programs undertaken by the Board of
Investment, the way was paved for the remarkable growth of the manufacturing sector.