MARKET EXPANSION FOR THAI FOOD & PRODUCTS ACROSS THE MIDDLE EAST

WHY THE MIDDLE EAST MARKET?

A MAJOR GLOBAL IMPORT MARKET

In 2024, the GCC (Middle East) recorded a total import value of approximately USD 740 billion across the region, reflecting around 12% growth compared to the previous year. This highlights a consistently growing and stable import-driven market.

THE UAE: THE REGION’S LEADING TRADE HUB

In 2024, the UAE’s non-oil trade reached a record high of over USD 817 billion, highlighting the country’s large and continuously growing market for goods and general trade.

REGIONAL TRADE VALUE EXCEEDS USD 1.6 TRILLION

In 2024, the total international trade volume of GCC countries—including both imports and exports—reached approximately USD 1.6 trillion, reflecting the region’s massive market size and high level of trade activity.

IMPORT GROWTH IN SAUDI ARABIA & THE REGION

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are the largest importers in the GCC, accounting for over 70% of the region’s total imports in 2023. This reflects a high level of import activity and international trade, representing a significant customer base for Thai products across all categories.

OPEN MARKETS & PRO-INVESTMENT POLICIES

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s advanced logistics infrastructure are driving import growth and trade expansion worth billions of dollars annually. This creates strong and sustained demand for Thai products and international businesses entering the region.

THAI EXPORT SHARE IN THE MIDDLE EAST

The Middle East accounts for approximately 4.75% of Thailand’s total exports. Compared to other key markets, this is on par with countries like Singapore and Indonesia, indicating a sizable market that remains far from saturated relative to its true potential.