The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), functioning under Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce, is the primary national agency tasked with promoting Thai exports and enhancing the global visibility of Thai goods and services. Headquartered in Nonthaburi, DITP plays a central role in driving Thailand’s international trade strategy through digital innovation, market development, and strategic branding initiatives.
Mandate and Core Services
The DITP facilitates Thailand’s export development and international trade expansion through a wide portfolio of services:
- Export Promotion Programs: Assists Thai exporters in accessing global markets through promotional campaigns and funding support.
- Business Matching Services: Organizes B2B matchmaking events connecting Thai producers with global buyers. In 2023 alone, over 100,000 business pairings were executed across all platforms.
- Trade Fair Organization: Hosts major events like STYLE Bangkok, THAIFEX – Anuga Asia, and Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair, drawing over 300,000 attendees annually.
- Thaitrade.com Marketplace: Thailand’s national B2B e-marketplace with more than 40,000 exporters and 4 million international buyers, generating over USD 340 million in trade value in 2023.
- Market Intelligence Services: Delivers sectoral and country-specific reports for over 120 international markets, assisting Thai exporters in strategic planning.
- Thai SELECT Certification: Promotes Thai culinary culture globally, certifying over 1,500 restaurants worldwide as authentic Thai food destinations.
- Soft Power Promotion: Develops initiatives focused on design, culture, food, wellness, and digital services to enhance Thailand’s cultural exports.
Strategic Leadership and Governance
Led by Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, a former WTO ambassador and a distinguished trade diplomat, the DITP has embraced innovation and multilateralism in strengthening Thailand’s trade competitiveness. Under her tenure, the department’s focus expanded to include digital platforms, creative economy, and SME digital onboarding.
Economic Contribution and Export Statistics
- In 2023, Thailand’s total export value was USD 287 billion, with over 24% attributable to DITP-supported sectors.
- Key export growth segments under DITP programs:
- Agro-processed products: +14.5%
- Lifestyle and wellness goods: +22.3%
- Creative and digital services: +29.8%
- Over 80,000 SMEs received targeted support in 2023–2024 via DITP training, e-marketplace inclusion, and export-readiness evaluation.
Global Network and Trade Representation
DITP operates 57 Thai Trade Centers (TTCs) globally, located in high-potential markets including:
- New York, Tokyo, Berlin, Dubai, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, and Johannesburg
These centers serve as strategic trade posts offering market consultancy, legal guidance, and buyer outreach for Thai exporters.
Digitalization and Innovation
- OBM+ (Online Business Matching Plus) platform connected more than 30,000 Thai sellers with overseas buyers in 2024 alone.
- DITP One-Stop Portal centralizes trader services, trade fair registrations, and market insights.
- DITP Academy trained over 120,000 learners across 2023–2024 in e-commerce, export logistics, and IP management.
Target Stakeholders
- Thai exporters and SMEs
- International buyers and trade agencies
- Creative professionals and service providers
- Food and lifestyle brands seeking international exposure
- Trade associations, chambers, and logistics networks
Recognition and Awards
- Honored with the World Trade Promotion Organization (WTPO) Award 2022 for digital excellence in trade services.
- Thai SELECT has been recognized as a best practice in culinary diplomacy by the UNWTO.
- Thaitrade.com listed among the Top 5 ASEAN e-Marketplaces by the ASEAN Secretariat.
Sustainability and Inclusiveness
- Special initiatives targeting women-led exporters and rural entrepreneurs, supporting over 12,000 women-owned businesses in 2023.
- Promotes green exports, including biodegradable packaging, sustainable textiles, and carbon-neutral logistics.
- Develops eco-certification programs aligned with international environmental standards.
Conclusion
The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) stands as Thailand’s flagship trade facilitation agency, blending policy, digital infrastructure, and global strategy to elevate Thai businesses on the world stage. Through its integrated platforms, global offices, and branding efforts such as Thai SELECT and Thaitrade.com, DITP effectively positions Thailand as a competitive and culturally distinctive trade partner in the international arena.
