Thai silk has been developed as a premium and high-quality product and is being given a major boost, so that it will be in greater demand in the world market and will become more popular among the younger generation in the country.

Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister for Political Affairs and Acting Government Spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said that Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha had supported efforts to promote “premium Thai silk” through the development of new production techniques. The objective is to encourage the new generation and members of the working group to turn to wear Thai silk, in addition to making it better known internationally.

Over the past four years, the Thailand Textile Institute, under the Ministry of Industry, has launched a project for the development of textiles and textile products in northeastern Thailand, so that entrepreneurs will be able to produce and sell them more widely on a commercial basis. 

The project aims to create new marketing opportunities and help develop operators of related fabric businesses in the Northeast, as well as generating employment and income for local communities.

In 2023, the Thailand Textile Institute is working with the northeastern provinces of Kalasin, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Surin, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Ratchasima in implementing the premium Thai silk development project, which promotes the image of Thai silk as a premium and high-quality product.

With the use of cultural capital, the project is also intended to promote the uniqueness of Thai silk, create its higher value, upgrade this local product, and expand its overseas markets to such countries as South Korea, Japan, and Italy.

One of Thailand’s best-known handicrafts, Thai silk is part of the country’s “soft power,” which is gaining in prominence, thanks to the Government’s efforts. Silk weaving is practiced in every part of the country. There are a number of silk companies in and around Bangkok, but the Northeast is still the main production center.