Thailand Strengthens Fruit Trade with China via FTAs

Thailand is stepping up efforts to bring more Thai fruit products to the global market—starting with China, one of the world's largest consumer markets. The Ministry of Commerce, through the Department of Trade Negotiations, has launched a new initiative to help Thai SMEs expand exports by making greater use of free trade agreements, or FTAs.

The pilot project focuses on fruit and processed fruit products, helping entrepreneurs leverage the ASEAN–China Free Trade Agreement and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, or RCEP, both of which grant zero-percent tariffs on many Thai products entering China.

The program provides intensive training on international trade regulations, Chinese consumer behavior, branding, AI-powered marketing, and business planning. 

Selected businesses will also travel to Shanghai this August to explore modern trade channels, visit wholesale fruit markets, participate in business matching sessions with Chinese importers and retailers, and attend the China International Fruit Expo 2026.

Officials say the initiative supports Thailand’s policy to position the country as "The Land of Tropical Fruits 2026," while creating new opportunities for farmers, community enterprises, and SMEs to reach high-value markets abroad.