Thailand unveiled a comprehensive plan to boost its agricultural exports, with a particular emphasis on expanding the durian trade to China and promoting a broad range of fruit exports globally. The announcement was made on May 8, 2025, by Minister of Commerce Phichai Naripthaphan and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Naruemon Pinyosinwat, who detailed a set of initiatives aimed at boosting Thailand’s agricultural sector and international trade relations.
The Ministry of Commerce has launched seven key strategies and 25 supporting plans to facilitate the export of 950,000 tons of fruit to both domestic and international markets. These efforts are designed to stabilize market supply, ensure fair pricing for farmers, and enhance the overall value chain. Strategic collaborations with major retail partners such as Central Department Store and The Mall Group will drive promotional activities and consumer engagement.
To further support farmers, the Ministry is working closely with the Thai Retailers Association, the Thai Agricultural Technology and Food Association, and the Thai People’s Association for Agricultural Technology. Together, they aim to cut production costs, most notably by reducing fertiliser prices by up to 50 baht per sack across 79 fertiliser types. This subsidy program, backed by 26 manufacturers, is expected to deliver more than 10 million sacks nationwide until September 30, 2025.
Thailand is also intensifying negotiations on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the European Union, South Korea, and ASEAN-Canada, with a goal to conclude these agreements by the end of the year. Successful FTAs could open access to over 50 international markets. In March 2025, Thai exports registered a 17.8% year-on-year increase, reaching $29.55 billion, an all-time monthly high.
As durian season peaks, the Ministry of Agriculture is working closely with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) to streamline export procedures. Measures include around-the-clock customs operations with enhanced staffing and inspection systems to ensure timely shipments to China. Nine certified laboratories are currently active in testing for Basic Yellow 2 (BY2), a key requirement for durian imports into China. Central Laboratory (Thailand) is also expected to regain its testing qualifications, helping to meet rising export demands.
In parallel, the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) is gearing up for three major trade shows, THAIFEX Anuga Asia, TILOG-Logistix, and the Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, which are projected to generate over 50 billion baht in trade value. These events are part of a broader target to raise overall export growth by 2–3% in 2025, despite global trade uncertainties.
DITP Director-General Saowapak Sununta Kangwalkulkij announced plans for 510 projects involving more than 700 activities, aimed at achieving a total trade value of approximately 92.36 billion baht. These initiatives will support over 261,000 businesses in navigating competitive global markets.
In anticipation of potential disruptions from the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions, Thai officials are also preparing responsive measures to mitigate tariff impacts and diversify export markets. The government aims to strengthen Thailand’s integration into global supply chains and adapt to shifting trade trends.`
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