Thailand Promotes GI Certified Products in Gourmet Markets to Boost Local Economies

The Thai Ministry of Commerce has launched a sales promotion campaign for products certified with Geographical Indication (GI) in collaboration with the premium supermarket chain "Gourmet Market." Under this campaign, excellent agricultural products and processed goods from various regions across Thailand will be sold simultaneously at nine Gourmet Market branches in Bangkok and its vicinity. This initiative aims to expand the market for high-quality specialty products originating from Thailand by granting them the internationally recognized brand value of GI, thereby gaining consumer trust. It is particularly expected to shed light on products handled by small-scale producers and SMEs rooted in local communities, contributing to their income improvement and the sustainable development of regional economies. The GI certification system protects and supports products that possess unique qualities and reputations, stemming from specific regions, traditional production methods, and natural conditions such as climate and soil. By enhancing the awareness and expanding sales channels for GI-certified products, the Ministry of Commerce seeks to boost their competitiveness and, in turn, strengthen the overall international competitiveness of Thailand's agricultural and food industries. For Gourmet Market, this partnership provides an opportunity to offer unique and high-quality Thai specialties to its customers. The aim is to go beyond mere food sales and provide a venue where customers can experience Thailand's rich culinary culture and regional diversity. This campaign can also be seen as part of the Thai government's "Thailand 4.0" strategy, which focuses on transforming the economic structure towards high value-added through the utilization of digital technologies and innovation. The development of high value-added products utilizing regional resources is a key pillar of this strategy. Source: MGR Online (Business)