Association with the global economy The Thai economy is very highly linked to international trade and foreign investment. Thailand’s degree of openness was 129% of GDP in 2005 and the expansion of Thailand’s economy always depends on foreign investment. Thailand is therefore more well-equipped and experienced in trade and attracting foreign investors than its neighbouring countries. This means that the AEC will give Thailand an opportunity to benefit from trade and investment from countries outside the AEC, more than others. Thailand’s weaknesses fall into many opposite categories. These factors may cause Thailand to lose some benefits or opportunities affected by the AEC.