Thailand Launches SME Export Program in Songkhla
Thailand's Department of Foreign Trade launched the DFT+ program in Songkhla to help over 100 SMEs expand into global markets through trade-matching events, networking, and border logistics training at key Malaysia checkpoints.
The Department of Foreign Trade is advancing Thai SMEs through the DFT+ program in Songkhla, connecting business networks and hosting trade-matching events while studying border logistics capabilities to prepare entrepreneurs for global markets. Department Director Arada Fuengthong has assigned Deputy Director Chanintr Rimcharoen to lead over 100 SME operators and government and private sector executives in relationship-building and trade network activities in Songkhla Province from July 22-24, 2026.
The DFT+ (Local to Global) initiative, officially launched on July 10, 2026, is funded by the SME Promotion Fund and aims to develop Thai entrepreneurs comprehensively through knowledge, networking, and connections to international trade opportunities. Since launch, entrepreneurs have completed two of five intensive training sessions before field activities in Songkhla Province. Participants will learn from logistics experts, engage in team-building activities, exchange experiences, and establish cooperation networks—essential foundations for business expansion and future trade partnerships.
A key highlight occurs on July 23, 2026, when SME operators will negotiate with business networks in Songkhla and nearby areas, including buyers, traders, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers, to expand markets and sales channels both domestically and internationally. The deputy director noted that Business Matching serves as a critical mechanism linking entrepreneurs with potential partners and driving actual transactions. The activity has generated strong business interest, creating preliminary negotiation value exceeding 10 million baht, with expectations for additional transactions and partnerships ahead.
The department also arranged study visits to the new Sa Dao Customs checkpoint, Thailand's highest-value land border trading post handling road transport to Malaysia and connections to Singapore. Entrepreneurs learned about X-ray Fast Scan inspection systems and the National Single Window (NSW) and ASEAN Single Window (ASW) systems, which the Department of Foreign Trade has integrated with electronic certificates of origin, reducing inspection time and facilitating FTA benefits.
The group also visited Padang Besar customs checkpoint, a rail transport hub connecting Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore that handles large container and oversized cargo shipments, helping reduce logistics costs. These visits provided entrepreneurs with knowledge of border trade infrastructure and capabilities.
