Bangkok: The Department of International Trade Promotion is actively working to enhance the export of Thai fragrant coconuts in response to an oversupply and falling prices encountered this year.
According to Thai News Agency, the department is collaborating with the Department of Business Development, the Thai Fragrant Coconut Association, and commerce offices across five provinces to devise strategic solutions.
Ms. Sunanta Kangwalkulkit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion, disclosed that Thailand is experiencing a significant surplus of fragrant coconuts, leading to a decrease in prices. With approximately 450,000 rai of coconut plantations in the country, there is an urgent need to expand market reach and develop additional sales channels to manage the surplus and support farmers' livelihoods.
A recent meeting convened by the Department of International Trade Promotion included participants from the Department of Business Development, the Thai Aromatic Coconut Association, and the Commerce Offices of Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, Nakhon Pathom, and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. Key strategies agreed upon during the meeting involve accelerating the search for new markets both domestically and internationally, expanding into regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, promoting processing industries to extend product shelf life, and ensuring product compliance with international standards. Additionally, there is an emphasis on supporting Thai entrepreneurs in exporting directly and educating consumers on the benefits of "pure, unadulterated fragrant coconut water."
In line with these efforts, the Department of International Trade Promotion is organizing the 7th annual Business Matching Event for Fresh, Processed, and Agricultural Products on March 5, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit. This event is designed to offer Thai exporters direct opportunities to connect with international partners, foster business networks, and expand into global markets.