BANGKOK — The Department of Business Development (DBD) under Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its Thai SELECT restaurant certification program in 2025, according to DBD Director-General Oramon Sapthaweethum.
The Ministry has directed the DBD to revamp the Thai SELECT brand image both domestically and internationally to ensure consistent global recognition. This initiative aims to strengthen consumer confidence in the quality and standards of Thai restaurants worldwide while attracting food enthusiasts from across the globe to experience authentic Thai cuisine.
During March-April 2025, a committee of food experts from both public and private sectors will select 120 new restaurants to receive the Thai SELECT certification. The department also plans to enhance market opportunities for Thai restaurant operators by connecting them with local tourism initiatives through cooperation with provincial commerce offices and partner networks nationwide.
“In 2024, we generated an economic value of approximately 200 million baht (USD 5.7 million) through Thai SELECT restaurants across the country. This year, we’re targeting a 15% increase to reach 230 million baht (USD 6.6 million),” Sapthaweethum stated.
The department will promote Thai cuisine and the Thai SELECT brand through various online and offline media channels. Additionally, it will organize training seminars to enhance restaurant operators’ knowledge and skills, aligning with the government’s policy to promote Thai food as a key national soft power element.
Currently, 496 restaurants across all 77 Thai provinces have received the Thai SELECT certification.
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