Illinois International - Background Information

Thailand Overview

The Kingdom of Thailand, known as Siam until 1939, became independent in 1238 and is the only Southeast Asian country to have never been taken over by a European power. Thailand is located in Southeastern Asia and is home to over 65 million people. The population is 75 percent Thai, 14 percent Chinese and 11 percent described as other. Almost 95 percent of the country practices the Buddhist religion. Muslims are the second largest religious group and in large part reside in Thailand’s southern most provinces.

The country is divided into 76 provinces, and its capital, Bangkok, is the largest city in Thailand. Four distinct geographic regions also characterize the country. Mountains inhabit the north, while the northeast consists of the Khorat Plateau. The middle of Thailand is generally flat and fertile. Rain forests and tropical beaches compose the southern region of the country. Thailand is best described as tropical and humid during most of the year.

Throughout its history, the government of Thailand has varied dramatically. Currently, it is a constitutional monarchy led by King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont is head of Thailand’s interim government. The legislative branch is bicameral, with both the House of Representatives and members of the Senate being directly elected.

From 1997 to 1998, Thailand suffered tremendously from the Asian Financial Crisis. However, the country has shown signs of a full recovery and has been making progress socially and economically. Their main imports include plastic, machinery and mineral fuels and oil. Thailand’s economy thrives on an array of industries, ranging from tobacco to tourism. Thailand exports over $105 billion worth of products annually. The country is one of the world’s top producers of rice and is also the second-largest producer of tungsten.