Most economists are predicting gross domestic product growth of 3.5 percent to 4.5 percent.

But Kanit Sangsubhan, director of the Finance Ministry's Fiscal Policy Research Institute, says a number of factors including US economic trends could cap Thai economic growth.

The US government is likely to issue bonds after approving an increase in the public debt ceiling, he said.

"The problem is no one wants to buy US bonds, so the US Federal Reserve will have to buy them.

Then a third round of quantitative easing will be implemented to stimulate the economy. The problems will likely expand to Europe," said Dr. Kanit.

He expects a flood of capital into Thailand, which along with soaring prices of oil and gold will put upward pressure on inflation.

Rising prices of food ingredients against a backdrop of slowing exports to the US and Europe will force Thai exporters to focus on Asian market.

Dr.Kanit said the new government should quickly strengthen the domestic economy and deal with inflation.

He urged close monitoring of supply and demand related to 13 items that influence inflation and said the government should better manage selected products to prevent shortages and price increases.

Pig exports, for example, have caused domestic pork prices to spike, so the government must limit these shipments, said Dr. Kanit. The Pheu Thai Party's pledge to reduce fuel levies collected by the state Oil Fund will help to ease oil prices and transport costs.

"If the government can keep inflation at only 1-2 percent a year while lifting people's incomes, then Thai economic growth could even reach 6 percent annually," said Dr Kanit.

He said the government must have parallel policies to keep inflation low while raising income levels for people in order to allow them to enjoy the benefits of economic growth, which will create a multiplying effect on the economy.