Thailand could possibly become the world’s top pet food exporter after achieving a whopping 34% year on year growth for the first 9 months in 2022.
According to Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Jurin Laksanawisit, pet food exports recorded Bt 75 billion (US$2.1 billion) in export value during the study period, translating to 34.4% growth from the previous year. In addition, export of pet food has been on the rise for the past 37 months.
The US is the biggest market for pet food valued at US$600 million followed by Japan (US$235 million) and Italy (US$134.5 million). Dog and cat foods dominate total exports at US$1.822 billion while US$271 million are from foods for other animals.
Thailand is now the world’s 3rd largest pet food exporter behind Germany and the US. Laksanawisit said, “Our products target both middle and upper markets, especially in the functional food sector for owners of alternative pets. Thai products also meet international safety standards with a manufacturing process that ensures environmental sustainability, which help establish trust in quality among global pet owners.”
He is confident that Thailand will eventually become the world’s largest pet food exporter with government support and cooperation between the ministry and Thai Pet Food Trade Association. Laksanawisit was speaking at the Pet Fair Southeast Asia 2022, held in October in Bangkok.
