BANGKOK, April 1 Reuters Thailand39;s economic growth is expected at 2.8 this year before accelerating to 3.0 in 2025, the World Bank said on Monday, on account of weak exports and a delayed budget.

The growth outlook for 2024 and 2025 was reduced from 3.2 and 3.1 respectively, as forecast in December.

Southeast Asia39;s secondlargest economy expanded 1.9 in 2023 and unexpectedly shrank 0.6 in the final quarter of 2023 from the third.

Thailand39;s central bank in February also lowered its 2024 growth outlook to 2.5 to 3.0 from 3.2.

The cut stems from global trade slowing while the delayed budget slowed government spending, World Bank Senior Economist Kiatipong Ariyapruchya, told reporters in a virtual briefing.

Dimmer export and public investment prospects also attributed to new outlook, the World Bank said in statement.

The shipper39;s council expects exports to grow 1 to 2 this year.

Tourism and private consumption will be key growth drivers, the World Bank said, with tourist arrivals projected to reach 90 of prepandemic levels this year.

The government is aiming for a record of 40 million foreign visitors this year after welcoming 28 million visitors in 2023.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has characterised the economy as facing a crisis and in need of a major fiscal stimulus through his government39;s delayed signature policy, a 14 billion handout to 50 million Thais.

The 39;digital wallet39; scheme could add 1 to growth but will increase public debt,…