Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has met with the largest importer of Thai rice in the US to explore opportunities to expand the Thai market share and discuss strategies to mitigate the effects of US tariffs on Thai goods.
The talks on Monday with Royce Nicolaisen, chief executive of Otis McAllister Inc, focused on market expansion for Thai rice, including Thai hom mali rice and other potential varieties, the ministry said.
The duo also talked about the impact of US tariffs on imports and logistics costs, and recommendations for addressing them, as well as the competitiveness of Thai goods in the US. The pair shared information on market demand and support the Thai government can offer the company.
She said the Commerce Ministry will collaborate with Rice Hub to leverage data on Thai rice flavour profiles, characteristics and stories to enhance product value and highlight the diversity of Thai rice varieties. Rice Hub is a centre that provides information on characteristics of the Thai grains.
Mrs Suphajee said given rising global uncertainty from climate and geopolitical factors, Thailand is positioning itself as a food security hub to strengthen the competitiveness of Thai products in the global market.
She invited Mr Nicolaisen to visit Thailand during the first few months of 2026 to join trade negotiations under the Exclusive Incoming Mission, aimed at increasing trade volume and creating new business partnerships for both sides.
In 2024, Otis McAllister imported a record 118,000 tonnes of Thai rice, valued at more than $151 million.
The company has an extensive distribution network across leading mainstream retailers, major wholesalers and food service channels throughout the US, as well as Asian and Hispanic supermarkets.
Moreover, Otis McAllister reported significant growth in Thai canned fish and identified rising demand for other Thai products such as pineapple and dried tropical fruit.
The company is eager to collaborate on promotional activities for Thai rice, such as producing content on YouTube and TikTok featuring celebrity chefs and influencers creating dishes with Thai rice, and organising events in restaurants and retail locations to increase awareness and popularity among younger consumers.
Mrs Suphajee said Hispanic consumers in the US are leaning towards healthier products, aligning with Thailand's strengths, particularly in rice, herbs and high-quality processed foods.
This shift presents an opportunity for Thailand to expand in this market segment, she said.
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