Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand, is a country situated at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, bordering Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. Known as the "Land of Smiles," Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. Bangkok is the capital and largest city. The majority of the population are ethnic Thai, and the primary religion is Buddhism. Thailand is a member of ASEAN and an active participant in regional organizations.
Thailand is known for its elaborate cultural history, natural beauty, and modern attractions. Key attractions include its golden temples, vibrant cities, and tropical beaches. Bangkok offers glittering temples like Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), luxury malls, rooftop bars, and bustling street markets. Other popular destinations include Chiang Mai, known as the cultural capital of the north, Phuket, an island paradise, and Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temple ruins. Thailand's diverse landscape includes lush rainforests, national parks, and stunning islands, offering opportunities for adventure, rock climbing, snorkeling and diving.
Recent economic developments show Thailand's GDP grew by 2.5% in the fourth quarter of 2025, with full-year growth at 2.4%. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has revised its 2026 economic growth outlook upward to a range of 1.5–2.5%. Key industries driving growth include digital, electronics, electric vehicles, energy, agriculture, and wellness. However, the Thai economy faces challenges such as global trade disruptions, climate change, and high household debt levels. Political uncertainty could also delay the preparation of the next fiscal budget, potentially affecting economic recovery.
