Thailand's exports of summer-related products surged by 13% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024, reaching $1.27 billion (45.93 billion baht), according to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke. This growth is driven by the government’s effective free-trade negotiations and export promotion campaigns. Thailand is set to become a top global exporter of summer products, ranking highly in air-conditioners, ice cream, and canned and processed fruits.
Under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the government has been actively negotiating free-trade agreements to reduce barriers for Thai products in international markets. Key products benefiting include electric fans, ice cream, sunglasses, sunscreen, air-conditioners, and canned fruits, which are now tariff-free in several countries.
The Ministry of Commerce’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) reported consistent growth in ice cream exports, making Thailand Asia’s leading exporter in this category. Despite a slight dip in Q1 exports due to reduced sales in South Korea, TPSO anticipates continued growth fueled by rising global temperatures and consumer demand for cooling snacks. TPSO chief Poonpong Naiyanapakorn stressed the need for manufacturers to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Maxfood Group's managing director, Thanaphong Juiprasert, noted that China and Malaysia were major markets, with plans to expand into the Middle East and Africa by year-end.
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