12031. THAILAND'S ROLE IN THE WORLD ECONOMY. Profiles Thailand's evolving (1986-present) and future (1996-2000) role in the world economy, focusing on the role and scope of foreign direct investment in Thailand. Profiles the country and sectoral focus of FDI, assesses the incentives and barriers to current and future FDI. Pinpoints infrastructure problems and skilled labor shortages as key obstacles to both FDI and overall economic growth and development. Includes statistical appendix. 16 pages, 51 footnotes, 38 bibliographic sources.