PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1916489
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1916489
The global Thai cuisine market is expanding rapidly, supported by the growing popularity of Asian food, rising international tourism, and increasing consumer interest in authentic and flavor-rich cuisines. According to the report, the global Thai cuisine market size was valued at USD 9.68 billion in 2025. The market increased to USD 10.43 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 19.27 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 7.98% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific dominated the market with a substantial 70.74% share in 2025, reflecting Thailand's strong culinary heritage, vibrant street food culture, and regional demand.
Thai cuisine is recognized worldwide for its harmonious balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors combined with aromatic herbs and fresh ingredients. Cooking techniques such as stir-frying, steaming, grilling, and deep-frying contribute to its versatility across casual dining, premium restaurants, and packaged food formats. Influences from China, India, and neighboring Southeast Asian countries have further diversified Thai food offerings, resulting in strong regional variations that enhance global appeal.
Market Size & Key Metrics (Strict Report Years)
Key players shaping the competitive environment include MTY Food Group Inc., Narathai Cuisine Co., Ltd., Blue Elephant, Greyhound Cafe, and Exquisine Global, all of which focus on menu innovation, premiumization, and international expansion.
Market Dynamics
One of the major drivers of market growth is favorable government initiatives in Thailand. The Thai government actively promotes culinary tourism through campaigns such as "WOW! Thailand Passport Privileges" and the globally recognized "Thai SELECT" certification, which assures authenticity and quality of Thai food products and restaurants abroad. Tourism Authority of Thailand data indicates approximately 40 million foreign arrivals expected in 2025, directly supporting foodservice demand and international exposure of Thai cuisine.
Another key driver is the balanced and distinctive flavor profile of Thai food. Dishes such as Pad Thai and Tom Yum combine contrasting tastes using ingredients like lemongrass, chili, lime leaves, coconut milk, and tamarind. This complexity appeals strongly to Western consumers seeking bold yet balanced flavors, supporting Thai cuisine adoption across North America and Europe.
However, the market faces restraints from raw material availability and competitive substitutes. Authentic Thai dishes rely on specific ingredients that may be costly or difficult to source outside Thailand. Additionally, cuisines such as Vietnamese, Malaysian, and Cambodian offer similar flavor profiles, intensifying competition in international markets.
Market Opportunities and Trends
Expansion of the global foodservice sector presents significant growth opportunities. Thai diaspora communities have contributed to the establishment of over 17,478 Thai restaurants worldwide, increasing accessibility and cultural familiarity. Migration-driven fusion menus and adaptation to local tastes have further widened consumer acceptance.
A major trend shaping the market is innovative marketing and menu diversification, including expansion of vegetarian and plant-based Thai dishes. Digital marketing, food influencers, celebrity chef collaborations, and televised culinary programs are enhancing brand visibility and consumer engagement. Restaurants are also incorporating plant-based options using tofu, herbs, and vegetables to meet rising demand from health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
By type, Pad Thai dominated the market, supported by its global recognition and balanced taste. The Tom Yum segment accounted for 26% share in 2025, driven by popularity of shrimp-based soups. Thai curries (Gaeng) are projected to register a CAGR of 9.10%, reflecting growing interest in aromatic and spice-rich dishes.
By food type, non-vegetarian dishes held 69% share in 2024, driven by strong demand for chicken, pork, and seafood-based meals. Vegetarian offerings are gaining traction due to health awareness and sustainability concerns.
By distribution channel, the foodservice segment dominated, supported by QSRs, cloud kitchens, and casual dining formats. The retail segment is expanding through ready-to-eat meals, sauces, and frozen products, expected to hold 24% share in 2025.
Asia Pacific remained the largest market, reaching USD 7.93 billion in 2026, led by Thailand, China (USD 0.64 billion), and Japan (USD 1.25 billion). North America continued to grow, with the U.S. market expected to reach USD 1.12 billion in 2026, driven by immigrant influence and adventurous dining preferences. Europe reached USD 1.03 billion in 2026, supported by street food culture and cross-cultural dining trends. South America and the Middle East & Africa emerged as developing markets, with the UAE valued at USD 0.05 billion in 2025, driven by premium imports and culinary festivals.
The Thai cuisine market demonstrates strong structural growth through 2034, supported by culinary tourism, global foodservice expansion, authentic flavor appeal, and continuous innovation across restaurant and retail formats.
Conclusion
The global Thai cuisine market is positioned for strong and sustained growth, underpinned by rising global appreciation for Asian cuisines, expanding culinary tourism, and increasing consumer demand for authentic, flavor-rich food experiences. With the market valued at USD 9.68 billion in 2025, rising to USD 10.43 billion in 2026, and projected to reach USD 19.27 billion by 2034, the industry reflects a robust expansion trajectory supported by a 7.98% CAGR over the forecast period. Asia Pacific's overwhelming dominance, accounting for 70.74% market share in 2025, highlights Thailand's central role as the cultural and economic anchor of Thai cuisine, reinforced by its vibrant street food ecosystem and strong regional consumption.
Segmentation By Type
By Food Type
By Distribution Channel
By Region