The value of Thailand's exports tumbled 26.5 per cent in January from the same month a year ago while imports dropped 37.6 per cent, reflecting a sharp downturn in the global economy, the Commerce Ministry said Thursday.

Thai exports for January amounted to 10.5 billion dollars while imports fell to 9.1 billion dollars.

"Exports fell in every sector," Commerce Ministry Permanent Secretary Siripol Yodmuangcharoen said.

Thailand's three leading export sectors - electronics, electrical appliances and automotive - fell 40.4 per cent, 29.5 per cent and 34.5 per cent, respectively, in January.

The value of major agricultural exports such as tapioca, rubber and rice fell 56.8 per cent, 51.1 per cent and 23.7 per cent, respectively.

Thailand's economy is trade-driven with import-exports accounting for almost 65 per cent of its gross domestic product.

In 2008, Thailand's total exports amounted to 177.8 billion dollars, up 15.6 per cent from 2007, while imports amounted to 178.9 billion, up 27.6 per cent.