According to reports, Thailand’s textile and clothing exports are likely to increase by 8% in 2008, having been boosted by the country’s new free trade agreement with Japan (JTEPA). Japanese tariffs – which have been as high as 13.4% – will be eliminated and the industry’s exports are expected to total $7.68 billion in the coming year. The value of textile exports and clothing exports are likely to be almost equal in 2008, with raw material exports rising 10% in value.

Exports from the sector to Japan could now rise from $410 million to approximately $1.6 billion in 2008, despite having fallen each year since 2004.  Thailand's textiles and garment exports currently hold rankings 21 and 17, respectively, in terms of global market share.

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