Thailand's food trade to top $20B next year as country aims to boost gastronomy tourism

By VNA November 22, 2024 | 06:10 pm PT

Guests are served with nataing (crispy rice cakes) served in a basket and miang (lotus petal salad) on a bus tour in Bangkok, Thailand. Photo by VnExpress/Bich Phuong

Thailand is expected to become a global food hub by 2026, with the value of the nation's food trade expected to surpass THB700 billion (US$20 billion) next year as the government seeks to boost gastronomy tourism.

The value of food trade in Thailand is projected to reach THB690 billion this year, with an anticipated growth rate of 5%, potentially exceeding THB700 billion in 2025 if no significant external risks emerge, according to Taniwan Koonmongkon, President of the Thai Restaurant Association.

In a move aimed at promoting gastronomy tourism as a significant driver of national revenue and a key aspect of Thailand's soft power, Taniwan said her association has collaborated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Phenix Food Wholesale Hub, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation Office, and other partners to organize the Thailand Food Travel Mart 2024.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said gastronomy tourism and food soft power represent Thailand's culinary tourism efforts, aimed at attracting travelers from other countries.

By 2025, the country aims to welcome 39 million tourists, with Thai cuisine playing a significant role in increasing tourism revenue to THB3.4 trillion.