A Peruvian presence in Thailand with a regional focus could facilitate the positioning of products such as fresh and frozen fruits, superfoods, specialty coffee, and Andean snacks, according to Mario Salazar, chairman of the board of Agrícola Chavín.
Discussing Thailand's potential as a strategic hub for Peruvian products in Asia, Salazar, who recently attended the THAIFEX-Anuga Asia trade fair in Bangkok, emphasizes that Thailand, with its 70 million inhabitants and export-oriented economy, is strengthening its role as Southeast Asia's agri-food distribution center. He suggests, "What if we think bigger? What if we look at Thailand not just as a buyer, but as a regional platform for our products?"
Salazar outlines that Thailand's central location in Southeast Asia facilitates connections to the 10 ASEAN countries, impacting a market of 700 million consumers, including China, India, Japan, Korea, and Australia. Moreover, Thailand's logistics infrastructure features Laem Chabang Port, Suvarnabhumi International Airport, and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) project for enhanced innovation and connectivity. Additionally, Thailand is part of trade agreements like RCEP and holds bilateral FTAs with India, Australia, and China, supported by an ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, eliminating intra-bloc barriers. The Board of Investment (BOI) offers investment incentives, aiding joint ventures and re-exports.
Salazar proposes a Peruvian operations center in Thailand, coordinating distribution, logistics, certifications, and serving as an e-commerce platform. Key Peruvian exports could include fresh fruits and superfoods. Asia is an active market, and "Thailand can be Peru's gateway to Asia. It's in our hands to take that step," he concluded.
Source: Blueberries Consulting