Thailand Strengthens Trade Ties with the US Private Sector through Commercial Missions
A high-ranking delegation from the Ministry of Commerce, led by Minister Chatuporn Buruspat, has embarked on a mission to New York City to foster cooperation with major US private companies, including Clark Associates Inc. and H Mart, in the hopes of increasing imports of Thai products and promoting Thai food soft power. This initiative is part of the '10 Urgent Commercial Missions' policy, aiming to revitalize the Thai economy, particularly in the US market, Thailand's largest export destination. The visit aims to establish partnerships with the US private sector, which plays a crucial role in distributing food products nationwide.
Key Takeaways:
- A delegation from the Ministry of Commerce, led by Minister Chatuporn Buruspat, is in New York City to meet with major US private companies, including Clark Associates Inc. and H Mart.
- The visit aims to increase imports of Thai products, particularly food products, rice, processed fruits, and seasonings, as well as to exchange information on consumer behavior and jointly plan sales promotion activities.
- The Ministry of Commerce is preparing to organize the 'Thai SELECT Night' event on July 20, which will showcase the new Thai SELECT logo and promote Thai food soft power in the eyes of Americans.
- Clark Associates Inc., the largest distributor of food service equipment and ingredients in the US, has expressed interest in importing frozen fruit and furniture from Thailand.
- H Mart is considering adding more Thai products to its website, with approximately 62 items currently available under a dedicated 'Thai' webpage.
- The Ministry of Commerce believes this visit will be an important step in expanding Thailand's export market and reaffirming its potential as a country producing high-quality food products according to international standards.
Statistics:
- There are approximately 62 items for sale on the H Mart website under the 'Thai' webpage.
- Clark Associates Inc. is the largest distributor of food service equipment and ingredients in the US.
- The 'Thai SELECT Night' event is scheduled to take place on July 20.
Sources:
- Thai News Agency (July 18, 2025)