The government has launched the "Thai Street Gold Star" app, the first in the country, to promote Thai street food to international standards and support SMEs in reaching tourists, aiming to increase SMEs' GDP share to 40 percent within five years.
On 26 July 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertwiwatthana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is advancing efforts to upgrade Thai street food vendors, enhance market opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and promote Thai street food to global standards. Mr. Napintorn Srisanpang, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, presided over the opening of the Roadshow Thailand Food Therapy Festival & Thai Street Gold Star event and the launch of the "Thai Street Gold Star" application, the first of its kind in Thailand.
The project is part of the government's policy to boost the capacity of SMEs and the country's competitiveness by leveraging the strengths of Thai street food to add economic value, increase income for grassroots entrepreneurs, and position Thai cuisine as a national asset. This aligns with Thailand's ambition to become a global Gastronomy Wellness Destination, while supporting the goal to raise SMEs' GDP share to 40 percent within five years.
Ms. Lalida stated that Thai street food is now internationally recognized. Bangkok was ranked the world's second-best food city in 2025 by Time Out magazine, up from sixth place the previous year. Additionally, Banthat Thong Road was ranked among the world's best streets, reflecting the charm of Thai street food popular with tourists worldwide. The Thai street food market is valued at over 261 billion baht and continues to grow, highlighting its role as a key driver of the grassroots economy and the tourism industry.
The Deputy Spokesperson explained that the Thai Street Gold Star app is a digital platform that compiles certified street food vendors in one place, allowing the public and tourists to conveniently find quality street food with recommended menus, location details, and travel information. It also serves as an important marketing channel to help small entrepreneurs reach both Thai and international customers.
Certified vendors must meet the Thai Street Gold Star standards across three areas: Safety—food safety and hygiene; Signature—unique identity and distinctiveness of the menu; and Service—quality of customer service. This builds consumer confidence, raises the standards of Thai street food outlets, and enhances their competitiveness in the tourism market.
The project also aims to develop entrepreneurs' capabilities through training in business planning, digital marketing, AI technology applications, and food hygiene standards. Vendors who meet the standards will be selected to participate in Roadshow events in three pilot provinces: Bangkok, Chonburi (Pattaya), and Chiang Mai. These events provide opportunities for vendors to test markets, meet consumers, and connect with tourists, creating concrete marketing and income opportunities.
"The government believes that Thai food and street food are key national strengths. Raising standards alongside digital technology adoption will enhance entrepreneurs' competitiveness, increase SME revenues, stimulate tourism, and sustainably elevate Thailand as a global destination for food and wellness tourism," Ms. Lalida said.