PRESS RELEASE:
Thailand has emerged as Asia’s leading ice cream exporter and now ranks fourth globally, behind the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. According to the government, Thai ice cream exports have seen steady growth despite global market challenges, driven by strong consumer demand and expanded market access through free trade agreements.
Between 2020 and 2024, Thailand’s ice cream exports averaged 106 million US dollars per year, with an annual growth rate of 11 percent. In the first two months of 2025, export value reached 22 million dollars, a further 3 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
A major factor behind this growth is Thailand’s network of 14 free trade agreements covering 18 countries. Tariffs have been eliminated by 17 of these partners, giving Thai ice cream a competitive edge. In early 2025, exports to these markets accounted for 87 percent of total ice cream shipments, with strong growth reported in ASEAN, South Korea, Australia, Hong Kong, and Japan. Japan, despite maintaining tariffs, recorded a sharp 827 percent increase in Thai ice cream imports.
The government reports that Thailand’s ice cream industry benefits from its production capacity, diverse ingredients, and competitive trade advantages. Several international ice cream manufacturers have already set up production and export operations in Thailand, making the country a leading supply hub for the region.
The government also plans to support Thai businesses in developing new products featuring local flavors and health-focused ingredients to meet changing consumer trends and expand Thailand’s presence in global markets.
The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.
