Thai Rice Exports Eye Growth in China's Beverage Market
The Department of International Trade Promotion is encouraging Thai entrepreneurs to leverage the rising popularity of rice-based beverages in China.
According to a report from Khaosod Online, the Thai Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) is urging local businesses to increase the value of rice exports by targeting the growing beverage sector in China. This initiative follows a report from the Thai trade office in Guangzhou, which highlighted a significant trend in the Chinese market where rice is increasingly used as a primary ingredient in new drink products. Data from the Ka Men Yin Li Laboratory, covering August 2026, revealed that nearly 10% of 235 newly tracked beverage products utilized rice as a core component, rather than just a texture enhancer. Rice milk and fermented rice are becoming essential bases for tea and coffee, with major Chinese brands like Bawang Chaji already incorporating these elements into their menus. For residents and visitors, this shift underscores the evolving global perception of Thai jasmine rice, moving beyond traditional culinary uses to innovative beverage applications. While the DITP is actively promoting this opportunity to Thai exporters to boost trade, the long-term impact on the availability of specific rice varieties in local markets remains to be seen. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to focus on processing and value-added products to meet this specific demand.
