Thailand has set its sights on expanding shipments of organic products by 10% a year, boosted by a wide array of offerings.
Commerce Minister Apiradi Tantraporn said the government wants to aggressively promote organic products for both export and domestic consumption.
"Organic products have experienced strong growth in recent years in terms of both the domestic and export markets, thanks to consumers' rising health consciousness and environmental awareness," she said. "Given Thailand's variety of products and quality, the country has a good opportunity to develop into the production centre of organic products for Asia."
Thailand's organic product exports are currently estimated at about 4 billion baht a year, with shipment prospects expected to be promising due to the changing tastes of global consumers.
The global organic product market is valued at 2.3 trillion baht a year.
In a bid to promote organic product development, Mrs Apiradi said the Commerce Ministry is developing an organic village scheme, starting with five pilot provinces: Phetchabun, Surin, Chiang Rai, Nan and Yasothon.
The scheme has already kicked off in Phetchabun, Chiang Rai and Surin.
In efforts to promote better understanding and awareness about organic and natural products, the ministry is hosting the annual Organic & Natural Expo 2016, Thailand's largest trade show for the organic and natural products industry, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
The event, running from July 28-31, is aimed at building networks among manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the fields of organic and natural products and services.
More than 228 operators are scheduled to participate in the event, which is expected to generate more than 30 million baht in sales and other transactions. More than 40,000 visitors are anticipated for the event.
Thailand has 213,000 rai of plantation area for organic produce, with 9,200 farmers producing a combined 80,000 tonnes of organic products a year.
Thailand's produce champions for exports include organic rice, which accounts for 68% of total shipments, followed by vegetables at 12% and fruits at 8%.
Tea, herbal products, cosmetics and spa products account for the rest.