The Food Association aims for Thai food exports to grow by 10% in 2019, generating 1.125 trillion baht. It highlights the successful expansion into the functional food market, noting Thailand's advantage in climate while the world faces the impacts of climate change.

          Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak revealed after inaugurating the Innovation Center in Mie, Japan, that the two countries have collaborated in various sectors, with the latest being in the food industry. Thailand has received machinery from Suhiro EPM Corporation to enhance the production and processing of its food industry, aiming for sustainable productivity and value creation. Support will also extend to operators in provincial areas, as this center will operate at the Food Institute in Bangkok, with pilot projects in Chiang Mai and Songkhla.

          Yongwut Sawapruk, Director of the Food Institute, stated that in 2019, the overall Thai food export market is expected to grow by 10%, valued at 1.125 trillion baht, compared to this year's anticipated growth of 6-7%, valued at 1.07-1.08 trillion baht. Particularly, the market for specialized processed food (functional food) shows bright prospects due to consumer behavior favoring ready-to-eat processed foods that are hygienically prepared, safe, and retain nutritional value, catering to a lifestyle that demands more convenience.

          Currently, food exports are divided into 51% commodities and raw materials, 39% ready-to-eat products, and 10% functional food. The institute anticipates that the functional food sector could grow by an additional 2-3% from its current market share of about 10%, while the proportion of raw material exports may decrease in response to changing market demands.

          “Next year, positive factors that will enhance food exports include market expansion in the functional food sector and climate conditions affecting the world. However, Thailand continues to produce food normally, so we believe we can maintain and increase value. Risk factors to monitor include the trade war between the U.S. and China, which affects currency values and could impact the number of Chinese tourists coming to Thailand, potentially reducing consumption,” Yongwut stated.

          Akira Suzuki, Governor of Mie Prefecture, mentioned that this collaboration introduces food processing technology from Mie to Thai operators, utilizing food processing machinery for research and trials, and organizing seminars to showcase food processing technology in Mie. This aims to support cooperation between Thai operators and those from Mie, with hopes that the food processing industries in both Thailand and Mie will continue to grow and advance together.

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