Written by Somsak Chutisilp, Country Head of Thailand CONSUMER CONFIDENCE AND ECONOMIC DRIVERS The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) fluctuated throughout 2024 but showed a strong rebound in Q4, signaling renewed optimism among consumers. This rebound is supported by government economic initiatives and the continued recovery of the tourism sector, both of which are expected to positively impact the retail market in 2025. Retail Expansion and New Supply Investment in both existing and new retail centers continues to generate consumer interest and engagement. In 2024, several major retail center renovations were completed, and new openings added over 185,000 square meters of net new retail supply. With tourism and retail closely linked, the rise in international tourist arrivals has especially benefited established enclosed malls in downtown Bangkok. Looking ahead, the enclosed mall format is expected to contribute another 200,000 square meters of supply, which will test current occupancy rates amid growing competition. Innovation and Consumer Trends in a highly competitive retail landscape, both developers and brands are focused on delivering innovative products and exceptional customer experiences. According to Oxford Economics, Bangkok consumers allocate up to 40% of disposable income to discretionary spending, with the largest share going toward food and beverage (F&B). The F&B segment remains the dominant category for new international brand entries, with Japanese brands leading the way. Meanwhile, European brands continue to maintain a strong presence in the fashion and accessories segment. With consumer demand expected to stay strong in core retail locations, many overseas brands are eyeing Thailand as a key growth market in 2025. Click here now for more info!Download

Chinese from the middle class upward are sending some of their money – and even themselves – to Thailand, particularly as China has been reopening following three difficult years under zero-Covid. Many are hoping to hedge against economic pressures at home, while building their future in an inexpensive Southeast Asian country with growth prospects. The Southeast Asian country saw a surge in popularity among Chinese investors as zero-Covid began relaxing in late 2022 and they were again able to easily travel abroad to invest. Real estate technology firm Juwai IQI says Thailand in December rose to become the No 3 global destination for Chinese property buyers, coinciding with Beijing’s relaxation of zero-Covid controls. The firm logged a 107 per cent jump in Thailand-related enquiries from Chinese buyers between the third and fourth quarters last year. After zero-Covid, Chinese investors wanted to ensure right away that they had a place to live outside China, explained Juwai IQI CEO Kashif Ansari. Read more here: South China Morning Post This article was also quoted in: info.51.ca (CN), Yahoo! News (CN) Do you need expert assistance on real estate investment? Fill out the form below to learn how to get the most out of your investment! [hubspot type=form portal=5699703 id=2380afe3-ad4c-4cfa-9abf-d3947e377bf2]

Singapore is a popular investment destination for wealthy Chinese from the mainland and Hong Kong, but the city-state is too expensive for most cross-border buyers, according to Juwai IQI Group CEO and Co-founder Kashif Ansari. Singapore is the third-most-expensive city in Asia at US$14,373 per square meter (after Hong Kong and Tokyo), according to data from Juwai IQI’s partner Global Property Guide. That is why Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam lead the list of top Southeast Asian destinations for Chinese buyers of overseas residential property. Key factors include Thailand’s appealing lifestyle, affordable luxury property prices, beach second home destinations such as Pattaya and Koh Samui, and proximity to China. Thailand is also the top tourist destination for Chinese travelers. Read more: ReTalk Asia Want expert advice in real estate investment? Drop your details below and learn how to get the most out of your investment! [hubspot type=form portal=5699703 id=2380afe3-ad4c-4cfa-9abf-d3947e377bf2]