Rice exports targeted on visit to US

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is committed to exploring opportunities in the US for premium rice and food products, aiming to increase exports of rice and food products by 1.75 billion baht during his trip to the nation.

In Los Angeles to promote trade and expand the network of partners in the US market, Mr Phumtham said the country is Thailand’s second-largest trading partner and the biggest importer of Thai hom mali fragrant rice with 605,170 tonnes.

According to Mr Phumtham, the US is a target market for accelerating exports, particularly the western portion where there is a large Thai and Asian community with high purchasing power.

On Jan 18-19 he is scheduled to meet US business owners and major importers such as Golden Star Trading Inc, Ralphs Fresh Fare, United Natural Foods Inc, LAX-C Inc, and Overhill Farm Inc.

The ministry is also conducting in-store promotions for Thai hom mali rice products, in addition to the signing of a memorandum of understanding for Thai rice sales. The minister is slated to present Thai Select logos to Thai restaurants and meet US influencers to promote Thai food content.

Discussions are scheduled for collaboration on expanding distribution channels for small and medium-sized Thai entrepreneurs who want to grow their market into the US in the future.

Mr Phumtham said he had directed overseas commercial counsellors in each country to use local influencer networks to expand opportunities for Thai products.

“The US is a large market and we have longstanding trade relations with the country. It is a significant market for Thai hom mali rice and the Asian community here favours Thai cuisine,” he said. “During our trip, we will examine the warehouses for product distribution to ensure a comprehensive system and enhance product quality to a premium level, benefiting Thai farmers.