The Thai Fresh Fruit Traders and Exporters Association (TFTEA) is a key national trade association in Thailand dedicated to supporting the growth, promotion, and global competitiveness of the Thai fresh fruit export industry. Headquartered in Bangkok, the association acts as a vital link between fruit exporters, farmers, regulatory bodies, and international trade partners.
Brief History
Established in 2003, TFTEA was formed by a coalition of exporters and traders of high-demand Thai fruits such as durian, longan, and mangosteen. The founding goal was to enhance coordination across the supply chain, address trade barriers, and represent the Thai fruit industry in both governmental and international trade forums. Over the past two decades, the association has grown significantly in size and influence, now representing a majority of Thailand’s fresh fruit exporters.
Core Business
TFTEA operates as a non-profit organization that serves its members through advocacy, trade facilitation, certification support, and international market development. Its primary functions include:
- Representing members in policy dialogues with Thai and foreign trade authorities
- Promoting Thai fruit exports through exhibitions and trade missions
- Coordinating with government bodies on quality, phytosanitary, and customs procedures
- Providing technical support and compliance resources to fruit exporters
Product and Service Offerings
While TFTEA does not directly sell products, it supports the export and promotion of a wide range of Thai fresh fruits, including:
- Durian (Monthong, Chanee varieties)
- Longan
- Mangosteen
- Mango (Nam Dok Mai, Keo Savoy)
- Pineapple
- Banana
- Rambutan
- Papaya
- Lychee
- Guava
Service offerings include:
- Training and certification workshops (e.g., GlobalG.A.P., Organic, GMP)
- Market research reports and export statistics
- Facilitation of export documentation and compliance
- Coordination of participation in global trade fairs (e.g., Fruit Logistica, Thaifex)
Specialization and Core USP
TFTEA stands out for its:
- Extensive network of exporters and growers, enabling real-time market feedback and trade data
- Close cooperation with Thai government agencies such as the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) and the Ministry of Agriculture
- Market-entry assistance for small and mid-sized exporters
- Strong advocacy role in policy matters such as tariffs, quotas, and phytosanitary agreements with key trading partners (e.g., China, South Korea, Middle East)
Financials
As a non-profit association, TFTEA does not disclose financial revenue. Its operations are primarily funded through:
- Annual membership dues
- Government grants for trade development projects
- Sponsorship from industry partners and international organizations
Its continued activity and representation at global trade events reflect solid institutional support and operational sustainability.
Shipment Data
According to Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce and trade statistics:
- Thailand exported over USD 6.3 billion worth of fruits in 2023
- TFTEA members account for more than 60% of total fresh fruit exports
- Top destinations include China (particularly via the R3A route), Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, UAE, and South Korea
- The association actively supports fruit export logistics through:
- Coordination with customs and border control agencies
- Implementation of traceability and packaging standards
- Addressing bottlenecks in seasonal high-volume periods
Target Market
TFTEA’s services and initiatives are designed for:
- Fresh fruit exporters and traders
- Farmer cooperatives and growers seeking market access
- Retail chains and wholesale distributors in key export markets
- Policy makers and international trade bodies
- Investors and logistics providers in agri-export infrastructure
Capabilities
- Located in central Bangkok for proximity to regulatory and trade offices
- Partnerships with:
- Department of Agriculture
- National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards
- Thai Chamber of Commerce
- Access to export inspection and quarantine services
- Organization of international buyer-seller matchmaking events
- Consultation on trade agreements and sanitary regulations
Certifications and Compliance Records
While TFTEA itself does not hold product certifications, it provides vital support to members for acquiring and maintaining:
- GlobalG.A.P.
- Organic Thailand
- Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- HACCP
It also offers guidance on meeting EU, China, and ASEAN phytosanitary standards, and preparing audit documentation.
Customer Testimonials
Direct testimonials are not published, but industry feedback frequently cites TFTEA as:
- A trustworthy partner for international buyers seeking verified Thai fruit exporters
- A key contact point for understanding Thai export policies
- A credible resource for trade shows and investment insights in the agri-export sector
Major Achievements
- Played a major role in bilateral phytosanitary agreements between Thailand and China for durian and longan access
- Coordinated Thai participation at Fruit Logistica Berlin, Thaifex Anuga Asia, and Gulfood
- Supported over 500+ exporter members in certification training and export documentation
- Developed a multilingual website to serve both domestic and international partners
- Advocated for and succeeded in reducing customs inspection times for perishable exports through procedural reforms
The Thai Fresh Fruit Traders and Exporters Association remains a cornerstone of Thailand’s global fruit export ecosystem, ensuring that Thai fruits reach international consumers with quality, safety, and reliability.
