The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, is moving forward with the Thai SELECT Restaurant Capacity-Building and Networking Program. This initiative aims to enhance the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of overseas Thai restaurant entrepreneurs, while strengthening Thailand’s global image and advancing its soft power through world-class cuisine. The program also includes business matching activities within the THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 trade fair to boost the export value of Thai food products.
Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce,, revealed that the department continues to support overseas Thai restaurants awarded the Thai SELECT mark, enabling them to grow strongly in the global market. The Thai SELECT mark serves as an international quality certification guaranteeing authentic taste, premium ingredients, correct traditional cooking techniques, and an ambiance that genuinely reflects Thainess, all of which build confidence for global consumers.
DITP has recently elevated the image of the Thai SELECT mark through the “Orchid Star” certification and updated its evaluation criteria. As of May 2026, there are 1,419 Thai restaurants across 70 countries worldwide that have successfully passed these new standards.
To further strengthen this global network, the current program brings together 15 overseas Thai SELECT restaurant entrepreneurs from the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, East Asia, South Asia, and ASEAN. Participants engage in comprehensive, integrated activities, including studying Thai culinary culture at its source in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, learning culinary science with Dusit Thani College, and updating contemporary restaurant trends in the Song Wat Road area. They will also exchange business insights with leading experts, such as Alisara Sirichumsaeng and Pumiphan Iamprames, and visit the THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 event to connect directly with quality Thai food producers.
This program marks a crucial step in public-private integration to elevate Thai restaurants to international standards, foster a robust global network of entrepreneurs, and position Thai cuisine as a key sustainable soft power on the world stage.
