As an expert in international economics and development, I have spent considerable time studying the economic landscapes of various countries, including Thailand. To address the question of whether Thailand is a low-income country, it is crucial to understand the classification systems used by international organizations such as the World Bank.

The World Bank classifies countries based on their income levels in terms of gross national income (GNI) per capita. These classifications are updated periodically to reflect changes in the global economy. As of my last update, the categories are as follows:


1. Low-income: Countries with a GNI per capita of $1,045 or less.

2. Lower-middle-income: Countries with a GNI per capita between $1,046 and $4,125.

3. Upper-middle-income: Countries with a GNI per capita between $4,126 and $12,736.

4. High-income: Countries with a GNI per capita of $12,737 or more.

It is important to note that these figures are adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP) to provide a more accurate comparison of standards of living between countries.

Now, referring to the information provided, which states that "Thailand became an upper-middle income economy in 2011," we can infer that Thailand has already surpassed the low-income category. The country's economic progress over the past several decades has been significant. It has transformed from a low-income country to an upper-income country within a relatively short period, which is a testament to its development strategies and the resilience of its economy.

Thailand's economic growth has been driven by various factors, including a strong agricultural sector, a robust manufacturing industry, and a thriving tourism industry. The country has also made substantial investments in infrastructure and human capital, which have contributed to its upward mobility in terms of income classification.

Moreover, Thailand has been actively involved in regional and global trade, which has further bolstered its economic performance. Its strategic location in Southeast Asia and its participation in trade agreements have made it an important player in the global supply chain.

However, it is also essential to consider the challenges that Thailand faces. Like any developing economy, Thailand must address issues such as income inequality, environmental sustainability, and the need for continued investment in education and healthcare to maintain its growth trajectory.

In conclusion, based on the World Bank's classification and the provided information, Thailand is not a low-income country. It has made significant strides in its economic development and is classified as an upper-middle-income economy. The country's progress serves as an example of how strategic planning and international cooperation can lead to substantial improvements in a nation's economic status.

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Thailand At-A-Glance. Thailand became an upper-middle income economy in 2011. Over the last four decades, Thailand has made remarkable progress in social and economic development, moving from a low-income country to an upper-income country in less than a generation.read more >>