Junta spending boosts Thai growth but risks remain

Bangkok

THAILAND's economy grew by a more-than-expected 3.2 per cent in the first quarter off the back of strong tourism and public spending, official figures showed on Monday, but analysts warned the solid start was still shaky.

Once one of South-east Asia's most vibrant and successful economies, Thailand has struggled with lacklustre growth fuelled by more than a decade of political instability and slowing demand for its exports.