Thailand's economy likely expanded 1.7 per cent in the April-June quarter from a year earlier, slowing from 2.8 per cent in the first quarter, according to a Reuters poll of 15 economists published August 7-12. On a seasonally adjusted quarterly basis, GDP was expected to contract 0.6 per cent, the poll showed. Data is due August 17.

Weak household consumption was the main drag on growth, economists said, as higher oil prices rippled through transport and other costs. "High household debt and an ageing population were also expected to constrain consumer spending despite government fiscal measures," the poll found. Tourism arrivals were down 3.2 per cent year-on-year as of August 1, limiting relief from that sector.

Private investment in electronics and artificial intelligence infrastructure was expected to cushion the slowdown, along with export support, though economists said the export boost could fade in the second half after front-loading earlier in the year. Thailand's exports rose 20.8 per cent in June from a year earlier.

– Reuters Channel NewsAsia business reports.