“Thai exports this year are expected to grow by 0.3 per cent, while next year they will grow by 3 per cent based on stronger global economic and trade growth, despite many negative factors like low oil price, uncertain economic expansion in many countries, concerns over terrorist attacks, and natural disasters,” Apiradi said.

Other factors affecting global trading as well as Thai shipments will depend on whether the US Federal Reserve decides to raise interest rates, currency movement, and impact from the Brexit. The upcoming US presidential election will also affect the global economy and trading for this year and next year. For this year, exports to many markets are expected to grow slightly: to China by 1 per cent, to the US by 1 per cent, to Australia by 5 per cent, and to the Middle East by 2.5 per cent.

The ministry also expects exports of jewellery and ornaments this year to grow by 10 per cent, worth US$7.9 billion.

The 58th Bangkok Gems and Jewellery Fair is expected to generate immediate sales worth Bt15 billion.