Thailand's future food industry still young but steadily growing

The early-stage sector is gaining traction through innovation, sustainability, and investor interest in alternative proteins and functional ingredients

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FUTURE food currently accounts for only 9% of Thailand's food exports. But that number will soon rise. Thailand is setting its sights on becoming a leader in this sector, leveraging the advances it has made in agriculture, fishing, food processing and biotechnology to drive future food R&D and tackle food safety, security and sustainability concerns not just for the present but for the long term. Strong government support coupled with innovation from industry and the academe augur well for the sector, as do health and wellness trends that fuel demand for related products.

Future food currently comprises four categories - functional foods and ingredients, medical and personalized foods, alternative proteins and organic foods. Functional foods and ingredients, which offer additional health benefits, account for 91% of the sector.

According to Smith Taweelerdniti, vice president of the Thai Future Food Trade Association and managing director at Nithi Foods, these products are experiencing double-digit growth at 10.3% YoY, with exports in January 2025 valued at 11 billion baht.

Medical and personalized food products had a smaller share of future food exports for the same period at 5% but post a bigger increase at 17.4% YoY at 629 million baht. Alternative proteins (plant-based, alternative milk products and insect-based options), had a 3% share at about 384 million baht. Organic foods accounted for 1.9% of Thailand's future food exports with a value of 117 million baht.

The bulk of Thailand's future food exports go to Southeast Asia. The other key export destinations are the US, China and the EU.

World’s food supplier

Thailand ranks among the world’s top exporters of agri-food and processed products, including rice and sugar—key staples for global consumers. It is also a leading supplier of halal foods and ready-to-eat meals, reinforcing its position as a major player in international food trade.