China desperately needs basic commodities, and Thailand has few products of interest. In the longer run, resource-rich countries like Indonesia, Malaysia and Burma will benefit. Even the Philippines may benefit more than Thailand. |
Thailand will no longer remain China's gateway to the South. While Thailand will remain a good market for Chinese exports, the trade balance is likely to widen. |
There [are] likely to be more ventures in the future. China has excessive foreign reserves - around $700 billion - and Chinese enterprises are scanning the region for business opportunities. They are particularly looking for investment opportunities in basic commodities - energy, paper pulp, iron and steel, nickel and other metals. |