The Ministry of Commerce advanced to Mumbai, leading Thai entrepreneurs to build Thai-Indian business networks, open markets for eco-friendly construction and decoration materials, and support a green supply chain for shared future growth.
8 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Mumbai, Republic of India. Ms. Supachai Sutthammanont, Minister of Commerce. She disclosed after participating in a Thai-Indian business networking event at the St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai, attended by Mr. Wutthikrai Leewirapant, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce; Ms. Kirida Phaophijit, Assistant Minister of Commerce; Ms. Sunanta Kangalakulkit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP); Ms. Sanchavee Phatthanajak, Director of the Trade Promotion Office in Mumbai, India; and ministry executives. She said India is a country she visits regularly and has observed clear economic development, progress, and growing opportunities, reflecting a strong economy under stable economic policies that the global community recognizes.
Ms. Supachai. She said Thailand and India are neighboring countries connected by the Andaman Sea, and their relationship should be seen as a "regional production base and interconnected supply chain." Both countries have complementary economic structures. Thailand imports industrial goods from India such as gems and jewelry, pharmaceutical raw materials, tea, and spices. Meanwhile, key raw materials from Thailand are processed, value-added, and create employment in India.
"In the past year, trade value between Thailand and India was about 16.5 billion USD, with an average growth rate of around 15% over the past three years. Thailand is among the top five sources of intermediate goods for Indian industries, especially natural rubber and palm oil. Exports of food ingredients and pet food from Thailand to India have also expanded significantly." Ms. Supachai. said.
Additionally, the Minister of Commerce stated that the new growth direction of Thai industries aligns with India’s strategies, including semiconductors, the creative economy, AI technology, digital trade, pet food industries, and Thailand’s development as a medical and health hub, which can further strengthen mutual cooperation and complement each other.
For this event, the Ministry of Commerce brought 17 Thai entrepreneurs in eco-friendly construction materials and furniture, such as rubber-based building materials, wood products for flooring, walls and doors, home textiles, energy-saving cooling and heating systems, solar energy, hotel furniture, and health equipment and systems. They engaged in business matching with over 50 Indian entrepreneurs who are members of CREDAI, Maharashtra Chamber of Housing Industry (CREDAI-MCHI), and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
Ms. Supachai. stated that one of the key issues both countries cannot overlook is "sustainability and the environment," which is not just an option but a serious priority for all industries for the sake of current and future generations. This business matching event marks an important start to the year and advances the sustainable growth of the Thai-Indian economic relationship.
"If we want to go far and fast, we must walk together. India is a strategic partner of Thailand, and our growth must be mutual, based on shared benefits and sustainable development goals." Ms. Supachai. said.
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