In a remarkable achievement for Thailand, the country has emerged as the leading exporter of ice cream in Asia and ranks fourth globally, following the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. This success has been largely attributed to the robust growth of Thailand's ice cream industry, which has seen consistent expansion over the past five years, with exports exceeding 3,700 million baht (approximately 106 million US dollars) annually.
On May 11, 2025, Mr. Anukul Phrueksanusakdi, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, announced these impressive figures, highlighting the increasing popularity of Thai ice cream among consumers worldwide. "Ice cream products from Thailand have good growth and are impressive in the global market, continuously receiving acceptance from consumers around the world," he stated.
The statistics speak for themselves: from 2020 to 2024, Thailand's ice cream exports grew at an average rate of 11% per year, despite fluctuations in the global trade environment. In the first two months of 2025 alone, Thailand exported ice cream worth 22 million US dollars, marking a 3% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
A significant factor contributing to this growth is the network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that Thailand has established with 18 countries, which include major markets such as ASEAN, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, India, Peru, Chile, and Hong Kong. These agreements have facilitated the reduction of import tariffs, allowing Thai ice cream and other consumables to enter foreign markets more competitively.
As Mr. Phrueksanusakdi noted, "The growth of ice cream exports is significantly supported by Free Trade Agreements, which help reduce import tariffs and unlock trade barriers with partner countries." Currently, 87% of Thailand's ice cream exports are directed toward FTA partner countries, showcasing the effectiveness of these agreements.
Among the notable markets for Thai ice cream, ASEAN stands out as the top destination, with Malaysia and South Korea both reporting a 9% increase in imports. The Philippines has seen a staggering 70% growth, while Vietnam's imports grew by 41%. Australia also contributed positively with a 32% increase, and Hong Kong's demand surged by 116%. Notably, Japan has experienced an astounding 827% increase in imports of Thai ice cream.
This upward trend in exports is expected to continue, fueled by Thailand's capacity to produce high-quality ice cream and the diverse range of raw materials available within the country. The government is optimistic about the future of the ice cream industry, believing that it has the potential to become a central hub for ice cream production and exports in the Asian region.
As part of its commitment to fostering this growth, the Thai government plans to support local entrepreneurs in developing innovative ice cream products that feature unique Thai flavors and health-promoting ingredients, such as herbal components. This strategic move aims to appeal to the evolving tastes of modern consumers and further expand export opportunities.
Mr. Phrueksanusakdi emphasized the importance of innovation in the industry, stating, "The government is ready to support entrepreneurs in the development of standards, quality, and ice cream innovation that are unique and have a mixed proportion of Thai flavors, in order to create sales in new consumer groups."
In summary, Thailand's ice cream industry is not just thriving but is also positioned for significant growth in the coming years. With the backing of favorable trade agreements and a commitment to quality and innovation, the country is set to solidify its status as a key player in the global ice cream market.
As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how Thailand leverages its strengths to capture even more market share and delight consumers around the world with its delicious offerings.
