At THAIFEX 2026, Anutin declared Thailand’s determination to stand as the world’s leading “Kitchen” and serve as a partner in food security while advancing smart agriculture.
On 27 May 2026 GMT+7, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, presided over the opening ceremony of THAIFEX - ANUGA ASIA 2026, the largest food, beverage, and food innovation trade exhibition in Asia. The event is a collaboration between the Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, and the Thai Chamber of Commerce. This year, more than 3,600 companies participated in the exhibition.
Anutin revealed that the government is committed and ready to promote Thailand as one of the countries with the highest food security and the largest food export hub in the region. Thailand, known as a vital agricultural powerhouse with abundant resources, has long been internationally recognized for its food industry as the “Kitchen of the World.”
“Currently, Thailand is advancing toward becoming the world’s future food hub, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, health, and food quality assurance. Thailand’s strengths include rich agricultural resources, biodiversity, a robust food production system, internationally recognized standards, and the capability to add value through innovation,” the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister also stated that the government is pushing policies to comprehensively elevate Thailand’s food industry under the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green Economy) economic model to foster economic growth alongside environmental stewardship. Four main pillars drive Thailand’s food industry to global standards: smart agriculture and biotechnology innovations to help farmers increase yield and reduce costs; development of functional foods and alternative proteins aligned with health-conscious trends; promotion of sustainable production, clean energy usage, and digital transformation throughout processes; and positioning Thailand as a regional center for food trade shows, technology, and related services.
After the opening ceremony, the Prime Minister toured the exhibition booths, engaging in discussions with entrepreneurs, brand owners, and businesspeople to explore ways to boost exports of Thai food and beverage products to global markets. He also encouraged positive attitudes among Thai people toward using Thai products and highlighted the current international potential of Thailand’s skilled food industry.