China-Thailand Trade 2026: The Definitive Outlook

Total trade reached $130.89 billion in 2024, reflecting a recovery from the 2023 dip. Although slightly below the 2022 peak of $133.80 billion, the overall five-year trend shows significant expansion from the 2020 baseline of $97.97 billion. This indicates a resilient and generally upward market trajectory despite minor year-over-year fluctuations.

In 2024, exports reached a five-year high of $82.98 billion, while imports fell to $47.91 billion. This trend indicates a widening trade surplus. Notably, imports have seen a steady decline since their 2021 peak of $61.66 billion, while exports have grown by approximately 66% since 2020.

The bilateral trade market demonstrates a healthy growth rate of 7.51%. This positive momentum highlights the strengthening economic ties and increasing commercial integration between the two regions, suggesting a favorable environment for continued trade expansion and investment in the near term.

Electronics and technology dominate imports from China to Thailand, led by iPhone 11 ($5.29 billion) and smart cards ($2.28 billion). Significant value is also found in industrial components like cable trays and hard drives. This data underscores Thailand's heavy reliance on Chinese manufacturing for high-tech consumer goods and infrastructure materials.