Expert warns Thailand still slow on AEC

BANGKOK, July 22 (TNA) - A trade expert has warned Thailand is still behind on preparations for the ASEAN Economic Community, saying the country could fall behind other trade partners if its public and private sectors fail to cooperate. The caution was made by Deputy Secretary-general of the Board of Trade of Thailand Pornsil Patchritanakul, who says only the private sector seems enthusiastic about the AEC. Speaking further on the Thai economy in the second half of 2012, he says food and product prices are likely to continue rising in line with the global oil price. However, Thai exports in the second half of this year are likely to fare better than the first half, although growth will not exceed 10 per cent. He adds that the foreign exchange rate is the most significant risk factor for Thai exports, and that the baht is expected to average between 31-32 baht per dollar this year. (TNA)