Thailand's coffee trade is experiencing robust growth, underlined by strong import and export performance, according to the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy.

Imports reached approximately US$744 million, surging 58.92% from the previous year, with key suppliers being Vietnam, Malaysia, Laos, Indonesia, and Japan.

Exports increased to approximately US$178 million, a 10.19% rise, with Cambodia, Laos, Australia, Myanmar, and the Philippines as the top export destinations.

Office of Trade Policy and Strategy Director Nantapong Jiralertpong points to this as a major opportunity for Thailand to elevate its coffee industry — drawing inspiration from countries like Switzerland, Germany, and Malaysia, which, despite not being primary coffee growers, have become major global coffee exporters through processing and value-added innovation.

The roadmap ahead includes reducing import costs to boost Thai entrepreneurs, promoting high-quality coffee processing, investing in modern machinery and technology, and championing sustainable trade practices — from eco-friendly packaging to fair trade certification and forward contract systems to ensure farmers receive fair prices.

The world is waking up to Thai coffee — and it tastes like success.