Thailand’s political uncertainty continues to seriously affect expectations for its economic performance. The International Monetary Fund has issued a new prediction for economic growth of only 2.5% this year, down from its previous estimate of 5.2%. This would be the lowest growth rate in Southeast Asia. The fund said in its April survey that political uncertainty continues to weaken private demand and delay public investment. After months of street protests, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is facing a court judgement on a disputed election in February and personal allegations of abuse of power.
