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Over the three years from 2021 to 2023, the value of the domestic market for ready-to-eat food will gradually rise.

During 2027–2029, domestic sales volume of ready-to-eat (RTE) food is expected to grow by an average of 2.8–3.8% annually,

During 2026–2028, Thailand’s domestic sales volume of ready-to-eat foods is expected to expand by an average of 2.3–3.3% annually.

Sales of ready-to-eat food will increase through 2022-2024. The domestic market, the main source of income for the industry, will be buoyed by sales of instant noodles, as weak spending power encourages consumers to turn to low-cost foods. Sales of chilled and frozen food are also expected to rise with the spread of modern trade outlets, of which are the main distribution channel. In addition, ongoing urbanization is also encouraging consumers to adopt lifestyles that place a greater premium on convenience and speed, which will naturally translate into stronger sales of ready-to-eat meals.

, the market should bounce back to growth over 2024 to 2026 and the forecast is thus for sales to the domestic market to expand by 3.0-4.0% annually on (i) general economic growth and the positive impacts of this on consumer purchasing power; (ii) an expansion in sales made through modern trade outlets; (iii) the development of new product lines, with healthier options likely to be especially important; and (iv) an uptick in economic activity that will boost sales of goods that are easy to consume.

For 2026–2027, demand is expected to rise gradually in line with the slow recovery of both the Thai and global economies.

Industry Outlook 2023-2025: Modern Trade

Industry Outlook 2021-2023: Modern Trade

Output Thailand’s chicken products is forecast to expand by an average 2.5-3.5% annually over 2023 to 2025. Within Thailand, the full reopening of the country is underpinning an accelerating rebound in tourist arrivals. This, coupled with broader recovery in the economy, will support stronger demand for chicken from restaurants and food processors. Exporters of chicken products can also look forward to an improving business environment