![Thailand's exports could reach 9% this year, according to Commerce Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong. (Bangkok Post photo)](https://static.bangkokpost.com/media/content/20180712/c1_1502218.jpg)
Thailand's exports are expected to increase 9% this year, more than earlier forecast, as the global economy continues to expand, though a trade war is a risk, Commerce Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong said on Thursday.
Exports will definitely be higher than the previous target of 8% and "a 9% figure is most likely", the minister said.
Exports -- a key driver of Southeast Asia's second-largest economy -- rose 11.55% in January-May from a year earlier. Shipments rose 9.9% in 2017.