Asia’s Largest Food Trade Show: THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 Unveiled

May 14, 2024

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The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), in collaboration with the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and Koelnmesse (KM), is set to host the highly anticipated THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024. This premier event will be Asia’s largest and most comprehensive food and beverage trade show from May 28 to June 1, 2024, at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Under the visionary theme of “Beyond Food Experience,” THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 aims to transcend the conventional trade show format, offering a dynamic platform for business negotiations, trend analysis, and industry networking.

A Platform for Global Food Business Opportunities

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 is more than just an exhibition; it is a global business negotiation hub where food and beverage businesses, retailers, supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants converge. This year’s event promises to connect participants with leading companies from Thailand and worldwide, facilitating opportunities for business partnerships and showcasing the latest trends and consumer demands. With five days dedicated to business negotiations and a final day open to the general public, the event is expected to drive significant economic impact.

Economic Impact and Industry Growth

Mr. Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, Director-General of DITP, highlighted the critical role of the food industry in Thailand’s export economy. “In 2023, food exports expanded by 2.7%, reaching a value of approximately $39.89 billion USD or 1.37 trillion baht. For 2024, we anticipate a 2% increase, projecting food exports to exceed $40.69 billion USD or 1.4 trillion baht. This growth is fueled by the recovery of developing economies, tourism, and a favorable exchange rate,” he explained.

Mr Phusit emphasized that THAIFEX — ANUGA ASIA is a strategic platform for food and beverage entrepreneurs. “This event not only underscores Thailand’s potential as a global leader in high-quality food production but also attracts international industry leaders who prioritize sustainability and compliance with international standards,” he added.

A Showcase of Global Food Innovation

THAIFEX—ANUGA ASIA 2024 will feature over 3,000 exhibitors from over 50 countries occupying over 6,000 booths. The event is expected to draw over 80,000 visitors, with an estimated total order value exceeding 100 billion baht. Exhibitors will showcase various products across various zones, including Coffee and tea, Drinks, Fine Food, Food Service, Food Technology, Frozen Food, Fruits and vegetables, Meat, Rice, Seafood, and Sweet and confectionery.

Special Zones and Highlights

The event will introduce six special zones: THAIFEX – ANUGA Future Food Market, THAIFEX – ANUGA Halal Market, THAIFEX – ANUGA Organic Market, THAIFEX – ANUGA Startup, THAIFEX – ANUGA tasteInnovation Show, and THAIFEX – ANUGA Trend Zone. Highlights include the Thai SELECT Pavilion, knowledge-sharing seminars at Future Food Experience+, and Export Clinic sessions for trade networking.

Mr. Phusit noted, “The organized activities will provide participants with valuable insights into current food trends, consumer demands, and market developments, driving future industry success.”

Global Recognition and Participation

Dr. Kitsana Vachekrilas, Secretary General of The Thai Chamber of Commerce, highlighted Thailand’s significant global food export position. “In 2023, Thailand ranked as the 12th largest food exporter, up from 15th in 2022. THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA plays a crucial role in showcasing Thailand’s food industry, providing a platform for both established and emerging entrepreneurs,” he stated.

This year’s event will feature over 2000 international exhibitors, a 12% increase from the previous year, emphasizing its global appeal. New exhibiting countries include Bolivia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Macedonia, Mexico, Yemen, and new country groups such as Macao and Canada.

Sustainable and Innovative Food Solutions

Dr Kitsana highlighted the event’s focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly innovations. “THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 will showcase products that align with the growing trend towards sustainability, such as organic soybean cheese reducing CO2 emissions by 80%, environmentally friendly oat milk, and food-grade gloves made from responsibly managed natural materials,” he explained.

Other notable innovations include snacks from banana scraps, boots recycled from food preservation film, organic fertilizer from durian peels, and milk from cashew nut powder. Environmentally friendly packaging solutions will also be featured, such as biodegradable bio-bags and plastic packaging that decomposes within two years.

Health-Conscious Consumer Trends

Mr. Mathias Kuepper, Managing Director and Vice President of Koelnmesse Asia Pacific, emphasized the rising demand for health-promoting products. “Consumers today prioritize health and well-being, driving demand for innovative products like plant-based protein and child health-supporting confectionery,” he said.

Exciting Competitions and Special Events

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 will host various competitions and special events, including:

Future Food Experience+: Focused on sustainable production, emerging trends, and technological innovations.
Alternative Protein Flavour and Taste Contest: Showcasing innovative alternative protein products, with visitors voting on the best offerings.
Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge: A culinary competition featuring over 700 chefs worldwide.

Join the Premier Food Industry Event

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 is an essential event for anyone in the food and beverage industry. It offers a unique opportunity to discover new products, connect with potential partners, and stay ahead of industry trends.

For more information, visit the official THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2024 website. Business negotiations will be held from May 28 to June 1, 2024, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with retail sales on June 1, 2024, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani.