Ireland’s Bord Bia Launches Dairy Campaign in Thailand, Targeting Growing South East Asian Markets

Irish dairy exports to Thailand generated €55 million in 2023, representing over 95% of total Irish food and drink exports to the country. This new campaign, backed by Bord Bia and the European Commission, aims to enhance these numbers by promoting Ireland’s grass-fed, sustainable dairy industry.

Declan Fennell, Bord Bia's Senior Manager of EU Co-funded Campaigns, emphasized that the campaign offers an essential platform for showcasing Irish dairy in these high-potential markets. “Promoting dairy with the EU provides Ireland immediate access to top dairy buyers in Thailand, showcasing our sustainability programme, Origin Green, and highlighting the advantages of our family-run, grass-based farms,” said Fennell.

This campaign includes visits by Asian buyers from Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines to Irish dairy farms and processing facilities, reinforcing the message of Ireland’s sustainable dairy practices. Lisa Phelan, Bord Bia’s South East Asia Manager, highlighted the growing demand for adult dairy nutrition in the region as a promising opportunity for Irish exporters, noting that Irish dairy has long been well-positioned in Thailand and Vietnam.

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, Senator Pippa Hackett, praised Bord Bia's initiative and its focus on two significant growth markets for Irish exports. “The European Commission selected Bord Bia to lead this three-year campaign in Southeast Asia and Japan, recognizing the sustainable nature of Irish dairy production. With a campaign investment of €3.2 million, Irish dairy exports to South East Asia are forecast to approach €60 million by 2025,” she stated.

This strategic campaign underpins Ireland’s dedication to expanding its dairy footprint in Asia, strengthening its business ties, and promoting Irish dairy’s unique attributes to meet the growing demand in these emerging markets.

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