PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1890772
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1890772
The global Thai cuisine market continues to witness strong expansion driven by rising culinary tourism, increasing migration, and growing international demand for authentic Asian food. As per the latest industry estimates, the market was valued at USD 9.00 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 9.68 billion in 2025, and is expected to advance to USD 16.47 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.88% during 2025-2032. With a 70.67% market share in 2024, the Asia Pacific region remains the dominant force, fueled by Thailand's thriving tourism sector, rich street food culture, and the strong presence of foodservice operators offering authentic Thai dishes.
Thai cuisine is widely recognized for its harmonious blend of sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and spicy flavors. Popular dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Thai curries, and Thai fried rice are now featured in menus across major global cities, reinforcing the global appeal of Thailand's culinary heritage. Key market participants include MTY Food Group Inc., Greyhound Cafe, Blue Elephant, Narathai Cuisine Co. Ltd., and Exquisine Global, all of which focus on expanding restaurant chains and packaged food portfolios.
Market Drivers
Government-Led Tourism Growth in Thailand
Thailand's tourism boom remains a major catalyst for the global Thai cuisine market. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), foreign arrivals are estimated to reach 40 million in 2025, with revenue expected to grow 7.5% over 2024. As tourists experience authentic Thai food during travel, global exposure increases, encouraging expansion of Thai restaurants worldwide. Initiatives like "WOW! Thailand Passport Privileges" aim to elevate tourist experiences, promoting hygienic and authentic Thai food.
Balanced Flavor Profile Enhancing Global Popularity
Thai cuisine stands out for its well-balanced flavor combinations featuring ingredients such as coconut milk, lemongrass, chilies, tamarind, lime leaves, and shrimp paste. This balance appeals to Western consumers seeking bold yet familiar flavors. Regional variations, influenced by neighboring countries such as China and India, further enrich Thai menus, enhancing global acceptance of traditional and fusion Thai foods.
Market Restraints
Raw Material Challenges and Availability of Substitutes
Authentic Thai dishes require specific ingredients that are often difficult for foodservice operators outside Thailand to procure at reasonable cost. This raises production expenses, making Thai cuisine comparatively more expensive for consumers. Additionally, competition from similar Asian cuisines-such as Vietnamese, Malaysian, and Cambodian food-acts as a restraint on market growth.
Market Opportunities
Rise of Global Thai Foodservice Expansion
Growing migration has accelerated the spread of Thai food culture worldwide. As of 2024, global Thai diaspora numbers include 256,642 Thai nationals in the U.S., 159,264 in South Korea, and 84,324 in Germany, among others. This diaspora has helped businesses introduce Thai cuisine in global markets. With over 17,478 Thai restaurants worldwide, demand is rising for certified, authentic Thai packaged products. Thailand's "Thai SELECT" certification further strengthens global trust in Thai culinary offerings.
Segmental Highlights
By Type
Pad Thai remains the leading segment due to worldwide popularity and accessibility.
Tom Yum is expected to hold 26% of the market in 2025, supported by rising packaged food launches.
Gaeng (curries) is projected to grow at a strong CAGR of 9.10% due to widespread appeal of red, green, and massaman curries.
By Food Type
The non-vegetarian segment dominated with 69% share in 2024, driven by dishes using chicken, shrimp, and pork. Vegetarian demand continues to rise due to health consciousness and sustainability trends.
By Distribution Channel
The foodservice segment is the market leader and is expected to grow at 7.95% CAGR, driven by QSR expansion, cloud kitchens, and rising online ordering. Retail Thai packaged foods are also expanding, with the segment expected to reach 24% share in 2025.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific recorded USD 6.36 billion in 2024, reflecting its dominant position. Thailand's culinary tourism and strong street food presence drive regional growth. The region is expected to reach USD 1.24 billion in 2025, supported by expanding QSR and food retail networks.
North America
North America's demand continues to rise due to a growing appetite for cross-cultural cuisine. The U.S. market alone is expected to reach USD 1.04 billion in 2025.
Europe
Europe is forecasted to reach USD 0.96 billion in 2025, supported by strong street food culture and increasing demand for exotic flavors.
South America
The region is projected to reach USD 0.36 billion in 2025, driven by rising urbanization and cultural exposure to Thai cuisine.
Middle East & Africa
The UAE is emerging as a promising market, expected to reach USD 0.05 billion in 2025, supported by growth in imports and premium Thai food launches.
Conclusion
From USD 9.00 billion in 2024 to USD 16.47 billion by 2032, the Thai cuisine market is on a strong upward trajectory. Expanding tourism, global migration, diverse flavor profiles, and rising foodservice innovation continue to position Thai cuisine as one of the most influential culinary categories worldwide.
Segmentation By Type
By Food Type
By Distribution Channel
By Region