Expanding opportunities in international markets

Vitafoods Asia 2026, a specialized exhibition on ingredients, technologies, and innovative solutions for the dietary supplement, nutrition, and healthcare industries, was held in Bangkok, Thailand, from September 2 to 4.

Spanning more than 20,000 square meters, the event brought together over 800 enterprises from 40 countries and territories, along with more than 10 international pavilions.

At the exhibition, Vietnamese businesses showcased a wide range of deeply processed, high-value products, highlighting a shift from reliance on raw-material advantages toward greater investment in technology, specialized product development, and enhanced competitiveness in international markets.

Among the notable participants was Vinh Wellness, a subsidiary of Vinh Hoan Corporation, which introduced collagen and gelatin products derived from fish and designed for applications in dietary supplements and healthcare products. LiveSpo Pharma, meanwhile, presented its liquid multi-strain probiotic spore products with high concentrations while seeking new partners and expanding its distribution network across Asia.

According to observers, Vietnamese products attracted considerable attention from visitors and international partners, opening up opportunities for trade promotion, business cooperation, and market expansion.

Enhancing value through raw materials and technology

Vitafoods Asia 2026 reflected the growing global demand for proactive healthcare, personalized nutrition, natural ingredients, and products that support long-term well-being.

At the opening ceremony, Manu Leopairote, Chairman of Informa Markets Thailand, said the exhibition serves not only as a platform for showcasing products and technologies but also as a hub connecting businesses with suppliers of raw materials and technology developers from around the world.

According to Leopairote, hosting Vitafoods Asia in Thailand helps bring supply-chain linkages closer to the market, enabling enterprises to gain easier access to raw materials, technologies, standards, and international business opportunities. The event also connects stakeholders across the ecosystem, from production, research and development, trade, and logistics to healthcare services and medical tourism.

Regarding Viet Nam, Rungphech Chitanuwat, ASEAN Portfolio Director at Informa Markets, noted that the country possesses significant potential in natural ingredients and herbal extracts. However, she stressed that enterprises need to strengthen research and development activities and accelerate technological innovation to transform raw materials into products with higher added value.

From the business community’s perspective, Bui Huu Nam, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Food and Foodstuff Association, said enterprises seeking to enhance product value should focus on three key factors: high-quality raw-material sources, advanced technologies, and suitable business partners.

Nam added that specialized trade exhibitions such as Vitafoods Asia provide valuable opportunities, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, to access new raw materials, technologies, and potential partners.

As international markets increasingly prioritize quality, safety, traceability, and sustainability, enhancing product value has become an essential requirement for Vietnamese enterprises seeking to expand their export presence.

Participation in specialized international exhibitions not only helps businesses promote their products but also enables them to stay abreast of emerging trends, access new technologies, strengthen business connections, and gradually integrate more deeply into global value chains.