Thai Fragrant Rice Draws Crowds at China-ASEAN Expo
Thai officials promoted seven varieties of Thai rice at the 23rd China–ASEAN Expo in Nanning, offering tastings of popular Thai dishes alongside the rice. Over 3,000 visitors praised the rice’s flavor, aroma and quality, expressing interest in purchasing jasmine and glutinous rice for home use or gifts. The department said the event helps align Thai rice exports with evolving Chinese market preferences despite a recent decline in shipment volumes.
The Department of Foreign Trade participated in the 23rd China–ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) held from September 17 to 21, 2029 in Nanning, where it set up a Thailand Pavilion alongside the International Trade Promotion Department. The pavilion was opened by Arada Fuangthong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, and Lieutenant Jakra Yotmane, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce. Visitors were invited to sample Thai dishes such as stir-fried basil seafood, chicken basil, papaya salad, cashew chicken, mango sticky rice, and garlic pork, paired with Thai jasmine rice. Seven rice varieties were on display: jasmine rice, white rice, glutinous rice, Thai fragrant rice, and speciality types including Riceberry, black jasmine rice, and Sang Yod rice, highlighting the diversity, nutritional value, quality and standards of Thai rice. Educational activities on Thai rice selection, a quiz with souvenirs, and cooking demonstrations were also offered. The booth attracted steady crowds, with over 3,000 visitors praising the rice for its delicious, soft, aromatic taste and high quality, expressing interest in buying jasmine and glutinous rice for home consumption or as gifts. Arada Fuangthong added that the expo provided a chance to meet Chinese importers and consumers to understand market trends and align Thai rice offerings with changing preferences. She noted that from 2022 to 2028 Thailand exported an average of 579,585 tonnes of rice to China annually, though exports in January–August 2029 fell to 191,953 tonnes, a 58.94% drop compared to the same period last year, while Thai rice remains an important export commodity, especially white, glutinous and jasmine rice.
