Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee unanimously held the policy rate at 1% this cycle, citing fragile economic growth and trade risks that make both rate cuts and hikes inadvisable. BoT Governor Witthaya Ruttakarit clarified the central bank is not committed to holding rates indefinitely and will remain flexible—ready to raise if inflation exceeds forecasts or the baht weakens sharply, or to cut if a new downturn emerges. Analysts expect rates to stay at 1% through 2026, with twin deficit and trade-war pressures complicating the outlook; relief may come only if Middle East tensions ease and inflation falls further, possibly triggering cuts in 2027.