Thailand is exploring ways to boost exports and market share of locally-grown red onions to neighboring countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), driven by their high demand and recognized herbal properties.
Commerce Ministry spokesman Poonpong Naiyanapaporn revealed that Thailand's red onions are widely known for their high quality and medicinal properties, which have bolstered steady international demand.
He noted that red onions grown in Si Sa Ket province, located in Thailand's northeast, are included in the provincial and national lists of geographical indication (GI) products. These onions are increasingly prioritized for both domestic trade and international exports, with restaurants encouraged to utilize GI-certified crops more extensively.
Poonpong, who also serves as director of the ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), stated that the government is expediting research and development (R&D) initiatives to expand production in Si Sa Ket and other potential areas. The projects aim to improve product quality while reducing costs and addressing production challenges.
According to the spokesman, the R&D initiatives also focus on enhancing the competitiveness of locally-grown onions through processing and the development of value-added features.
Official statistics show that Thailand exported over 14,000 tons of red onions during the first 11 months of 2024, valued at more than $12 million—an increase of 19.6% year-on-year.
Malaysia is currently the largest importer of red onions from Thailand within the intra-ASEAN market, followed by Vietnam and Singapore, accounting for approximately 48%, 18%, and 12%, respectively, of Thailand's exports during the January–November 2024 period.
The senior official projected that, with government R&D support and other measures, Thailand could further expand its market share in the intra-ASEAN red onion market in the coming years. This growth aligns with the country's targeted increase in production and exports, despite competition from rival exporters.
