Bangkok: In the first six months of 2026, Thai cassava exports contracted by 51.63%. According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Commerce reported that cassava exports totaled 2.52 million tons, marking a significant decline compared to the previous year. This reduction in exports is attributed to the global economic and trade climate, impacting the value of exports, which stood at 38,003.15 million baht-a decrease of 27.69% from the previous year.
Ms. Arada Fuengthong, Director-General of the Department of International Trade, highlighted that while overall cassava exports decreased, there was notable growth in cassava pellets. The exports of cassava pellets reached 0.18 million tons, valued at 1,250.76 million baht, an increase of over 30% from the previous year. This growth is credited to the efforts of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, who has been proactive in diversifying risks and exploring new opportunities within the global supply chain.
The increase in demand for Thai cassava pellets is evident in the surge of orders from Japan, which saw a rise of over 219%, amounting to 1,340 tons. Business matching sessions in Chongqing with China are also expected to yield orders worth 2,087 million baht within a year.
Germany has been experimenting with Thai tapioca starch for use in protective coatings and the chemical industry. Meanwhile, the United States has taken advantage of a 0% tariff exemption, and a new market has opened in the United Arab Emirates, where Thai tapioca pellets are becoming a key component in animal feed for dairy farms.
Looking ahead, the Department of International Trade, in collaboration with the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP), is organizing the Thai Tapioca Nexus 2026. This event, scheduled for August 13th at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Bangkok, aims to provide Thai SMEs and community enterprises with a platform to engage in business negotiations with high-potential importers globally.