Food and beverage companies worldwide will participate at the 14th edition of ThaiFEX-World of Food Asia in May to showcase the latest industry innovations and trends. The food and beverage industry is one of the largest sectors in Thailand, with the country exporting food to more than 200 countries and generating over US$24 billion in exports in 2016. THAIFEX-World of Food Asia 2017, co-organised by the DITP, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Koelnmesse GmbH, is set to be Asia’s most comprehensive food and beverage show with products from all over the world, drawing in exhibitors, buyers, visitors, and professionals within the industry. “In 2016, Thailand’s food exports were ranked first among ASEAN countries and 12th in the world. Moreover, the food and beverage industry is the third biggest industry in Thailand, after automotives and electronics,” said DITP Director-General Malee Choklumlerd. “Thailand is the home of a large food supply chain, ranging from international companies to local SMEs, who are vital in driving this business. We have experienced manufacturers utilizing the latest technology in their production.” The Thai government wants the country to become the centre for food research and innovation. This policy is one of the “super clusters” already approved by the Thai Cabinet. Thus, government agencies are promoting collaboration between international and domestic companies to drive innovation. “The DITP is working to attract leading international companies to invest in innovation in Thailand while promoting Thai companies to take part in developing the food industry,” said Choklumlerd. “To reinforce this initiative, at this year’s ThaiFEX there will be an innovative zone showing the latest food innovations.” THAIFEX 2017 will feature numerous activities: the 6th Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge 2017, a chef’s competition focusing on Thai cuisine and presentation; the 5th World of Food Safety Conference where international speakers in the food and drinks industry and food safety organizations will gather to discuss the latest industry trends; the Asian Food Franchise Forum, comprising talks on marketing and development opportunities for food franchises; and a Celebrity Coffee Bar where baristas from all over Asia will gather to demonstrate their skills. In addition, the DITP will hold exhibition zones such as ‘Thailand: Producer of the World’s Best Quality Halal Food’ which will showcase the quality of Thailand’s Halal food; the Thai Supplement Village to highlight ready-to-drink beverages and vitamins made from Thai herbs; and the 60+ Pavilion for anti-ageing food and beverage, and functional food. Last year, the fair involved 1,919 exhibitors from 40 countries, attracting a total of 42,528 trade visitors – a 21% increase on 2015. This year, organizers expect to see 50,000 trade visitors and a further 100,000 visitors on public days. THAIFEX-World of Food Asia 2017 will be held from May 31 to June 4 at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok. For more information, visit www.ditp.go.th or www.thaitradefair.com Words by Pimsirinuch Borsub