Informa Markets, a global leader in exhibitions and business-to-business trade platforms, curated the trip to provide international journalists with new insights into Thailand’s growing potential for sustainable development and innovation. The initiative also served as a prelude to Southeast Asia’s two largest upcoming industry events—Fi Asia Thailand 2025 and Vitafoods Asia 2025—scheduled for September 17–19, 2025, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

Smith Taweelerdniti, Managing Director Nithi Foods,Vice Chairman, FTI Chiangmai / Vice President of Thai Future Association speaking at the event.

The “Fi Asia Thailand & Vitafoods Asia 2025 Media Trip” brought together a diverse group of journalists specializing in food, beverage, and health sectors from across the region—including Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Representing Vietnam were reporters from Vietnam Investment Review, Vietnam Economic News, and Vietnam Beverage Magazine, who contributed valuable perspectives on opportunities for Vietnam’s food and beverage industries amid the broader trend of regional integration.

Over the course of three intensive days, participating media were granted rare access to leading enterprises, respected research centers, and best-practice production models that embody the “farm-to-table” philosophy.

Associate Professor Dr. Yuthana Phimolsiripol, Dean,Faculty of Agro Industry, Chiangmai University speaking at the event.

A highlight of the itinerary was an Industry Dialogue and Press Conference held at the Marriott Chiang Mai Hotel. The event brought together prominent figures such as Smith Taweelerdniti (Managing Director Nithi Foods,Vice Chairman, FTI Chiangmai /Vice President of Thai Future Association); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yuthana Phimolsiripol (Dean of Agriculture Industry, Chiang Mai University); and Puripan Bunnag (Senior Vice President, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau – TCEB).

Welcoming the media delegation, Rungphech Chitanuwat, Regional Portfolio Director, ASEAN at Informa Markets, emphasized that the trip was thoughtfully designed to offer journalists an in-depth look at Thailand’s dynamic food innovation landscape.

“We aim to highlight Thailand’s pioneering role in food exports and innovation through selected activities such as factory visits, leadership discussions, and exclusive press sessions,” Chitanuwat said. “In particular, we want to showcase how micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are contributing to regional development within ASEAN.”

Regional ASEAN Portfolio Director at Informa Markets Rungphech Chitanuwat emphasized that the trip was thoughtfully designed to offer journalists an in-depth look at Thailand’s dynamic food innovation landscape.

During the press conference, speakers underscored the critical role of media, academia, and public policy in advancing a sustainable food ecosystem. Smith Taweelerdniti presented on Thailand’s Food Industry & Future Food, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yuthana Phimolsiripol explored the Role of Academia in Developing the Food Industry. Puripan Bunnag discussed “Building Global Trust Through Government Support,” reinforcing the importance of public-private collaboration in positioning Thailand as a global food innovation hub.

Puripan Bunnag Senior Vice President, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) speaking at the event.