The Department of Business Development (DBD), in cooperation with the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP), is supporting Thai herbal SMEs through the “Herban Era” project, as global demand for wellness and self-care products continues to grow.

The project recently held “Herban Era Fest,” showcasing products from more than 50 Thai SMEs, including skincare, spa products, herbal fragrances, healthy food and beverages.

DBD Deputy Director-General Sathaporn Ruamnaphaya said the global herbal retail market is expected to reach around 66 billion US dollars this year and nearly 80 billion dollars by 2030. Thailand ranks 11th globally and among the top five in Asia, while holding the top position in ASEAN.

Featured businesses include KindaFlex, which produces a nano-herbal pain-relief spray; Hanara, a CICA-based skincare brand with refillable packaging; and Plantae, which offers plant-based protein drinks.

The initiative aims to help Thai entrepreneurs modernize traditional herbs through innovation, branding and lifestyle-oriented products.

A second Herban Era Fest will take place from August 21 to 23 at Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek in Nonthaburi, offering another opportunity to explore innovative Thai herbal and wellness products.