Thailand: Organic producers keen on market outlook

Source: bangkokpost.com

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Thai organic products have a bright future both domestically and internationally as more consumers become health-conscious, says Wanlop Pichpongsa, secretary-general of the Thai Organic Trade Association.

Local consumers are paying more attention to their health as the variety of organic products increases, he said, pushing sales over 1 billion baht last year. Producers have been active in promoting their products as well.

Apart from fresh produce, more processed organic items are available such as rice, rice noodles, pasta and sauces.

Mr Wallop is uncertain about export prospects this year as the EU and the US are still reeling from the economic crisis. Exports may have dropped below 2 billion baht last year, but final numbers haven't been released.

Phattaraporn Phenpraphat, the vice-president for marketing and public relations at Central Food Retail Co, operator of the supermarket chains Central Food Hall and Tops, said the company recorded about 40% growth in organic produce sales last year, below average growth of 60-70% from the past several years.

She attributed the slower growth to climate variability and the flood despite rising demand.

The company has pushed for expanded organic sales via its distribution channels by allocating an organic zone at some branches of its leading grocery stores.

Ms Phattaraporn said the company spent seven years working with farmers to establish international standards for organic produce to allow verification that the produce is chemical-free and hygienic.

Tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, pineapple, rambutan, mangosteen, banana and rose apple can all be grown organically, she said.

"We sell only certified organic products using international standards, not produce where the farmer merely claims it is organic. The organic market is driven by consumers so producers have to be serious about their production to ensure a sustainable market," said Ms Phattaraporn.

The Commerce Ministry projects sales growth of 5% this year for organic products as the floods have slowed production, requiring a new certification process. The main export markets are the US and Europe, though markets in Asia are expanding.



More information: http://www.thaiorganictrade.com/

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