Tourist arrivals to Thailand are expected to recover in 2H with the de-escalation in Middle East tensions, CGS International economists say in a report. The recovery would offer a meaningful boost to the Thai economy through higher tourism receipts, stronger domestic consumption and better employment conditions. Rising tourist spending should also help to offset weakness in merchandise exports and manufacturing, while also supporting income growth among small and medium-size enterprises and workers in tourism-related industries. CGS International raises its forecast for 2026 tourist arrivals to Thailand to 33 million from 31.5 million previously. (amanda.lee@wsj.com)