Thai Ministry of Commerce Awards Thai SELECT Certification to 182 Restaurants

On August 15, 2026, the Thai Ministry of Commerce, through the Department of Business Development, officially awarded the 'Thai SELECT' certification to 182 high-quality restaurants across the country. According to a report by Prachachat Business, this initiative aims to elevate the perception of Thai cuisine from merely being 'delicious' to serving as a robust pillar of the national economy.

For travelers and residents, this certification serves as a standardized indicator of quality and authenticity. By identifying establishments that meet specific government criteria, diners can more easily navigate the vast landscape of local eateries with greater confidence in the standards of service and culinary preparation. The government views this program as a strategic tool to strengthen the foundation of the restaurant sector, which is valued at approximately 674 billion baht.

While the Ministry has successfully recognized these 182 establishments for the year 2026, the long-term impact of this branding on international tourism and local consumer behavior remains to be seen. Furthermore, details regarding the specific criteria for future certification cycles and how the government plans to expand this program to reach a broader range of small-scale vendors have not yet been fully detailed. The program continues to operate under the theme of 'The Power of Thai Cuisine' to promote economic trust.