THAILAND

Economic Growth Expected to Slow in ‘96: Thailand’s economic growth will slow slightly to 8.3% in 1996, easing the risk of overheating, central bank officials said. The Bank of Thailand’s forecast would make 1996 the second consecutive year in which the economy loses steam. Gross domestic product grew by 8.6% in 1995, down from 8.8% in 1994. Still, this year’s growth appears likely to exceed the bank’s target of 8.5%. Bank officials said earlier this month that the slowdown is desirable because the economy has shown alarming signs of overheating, including relatively high inflation. A tighter monetary policy and a cooler economy should help Thailand reduce its inflation rate from 5.8% this year to 4.9% in 1996, they said. Inflation stood at 5% in 1994.