Building a global Thai SELECT Community, DITP connects Thai restaurateurs, suppliers, and business partners to create opportunities and expand Thai exports worldwide. 

Food has always been one of the easiest ways to connect people. A shared meal can spark conversations, create memories and open a window into a different culture. Thai cuisine does exactly that, with flavours that tell stories of tradition, creativity and place. As global demand for authentic Thai food continues to rise, closer ties between restaurants and suppliers have become essential.

To support this growing network, the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, concluded the recent Thai SELECT Restaurant Capacity-Building and Networking Programme. The initiative connected  Thai restaurant operators from around the world with suppliers, manufacturers and exporters across Thailand’s food industry.

Building Connections Through Authentic Thai Cuisine

The programme brought together 15 Thai SELECT restaurateurs from six regions worldwide to strengthen ties with Thai suppliers and explore new business opportunities. A key highlight was the business matching sessions at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026, where participants met with manufacturers and exporters, which opened doors to new partnerships and easier access to Thai ingredients.  

Beyond business, the group took part in cultural activities, culinary experiences and discussions with industry experts. Participants also exchanged practical restaurant management experiences and shared insights into popular menu items in a supportive “senior teaches junior” atmosphere. Regional Thai dishes and traditional desserts inspired fresh perspectives on Thai cuisine. Restaurant representatives from Denmark, the UK, South Korea, China, India and Indonesia praised the opportunity to connect with suppliers and fellow operators.

Strengthening Global Thai Food Network

At the closing ceremony, Surinthorn Sunthornsanan, Deputy Director-General of DITP, said: 

“Thai food is not merely popular worldwide; it is a powerful branding tool for Thailand, a cultural identity and a vital engine driving the country’s economy. ”

As of May 2026, Thai SELECT has certified 1,419 restaurants across 70 countries. DITP expects the programme to further  strengthen the global Thai SELECT community while creating new opportunities for Thai food exports and long-term business growth.