HIGH BAHT, SLUGGISH SPENDING COULD HOLD BACK 2010 EXPORTS

       Thai exports have the capacity to register doube-digit growth next year, but could be held back by two negative factors - the baht's appreciation and sluggish consumer spending - according to leaders of major export sectors.
       Although the global economy is rebounding, consumers worldwide will still save as memories of the economic meltdown are lingering, Dej Pathanasethpong, president of the Thai Garment Manufacturers Association, said yesterday.
       "Recovering economic growth will result in higher export growth for the Kingdom next year. However, consumers will still be afraid to spend on expensive products or so-called 'highprice ticket' items, including electronics and automobiles, which are Thailand's two major export goods," he said.
       Srirat Rastapana, newly appointed director-general of the Department of Export Promotion, yesterday said the agency would try to boost overall exports by 15 per cent next year in an ambitious target for the Commerce Ministry.
       "The department will revamp some of its promotional plans to ensure that exports achieve growth of at least 10 per cent next year," said Srirat.
       Her agency will seek tighter cooperation with foreign embassies in the Kingdom for promoting export growth in each market.
       The greatest potential is seen in the emerging economies of Asia, instead of in the traditional European and US markets.
       Citing the uncertain domestic political situationa and rising oil prices, Srirat said there remained certain uncontrollable negative factors that could affect export growth next year.
       To ensure sustainable economic growth for the Kingdom, Dej said the authorities must not only focus on driving exports but also continue with domestic stimulus measures.
       He added that the garment export sector could achieve at least 10-per-cent grwoth next year, against an expected 10-per-cent drop to US$3.1 billion (Bt103.6 billion) this year.
       Vichai Assarasakorn, president of the Thai Gems and Jewellery Traders Association, said the baht's strength when compared with the currencies of export rivals in the region would slow exports next year.
       Moreover, the government must not only focus on promoting Thailand as a manufacturing centre, but also as a trading centre as this would lead to better returns and enhance the Kingdom's growth.