Thailand Business Matching Forum 2019 was held at Dharubaaruge on Wednesday with 27 manufacturing companies from Thailand showcasing their products.
The one day forum was organized by Thailand's Ministry of Commerce, Department of International Trade and Promotion Board and Thai Trade Center, in association with Maldives Economic Ministry.
Speaking about the forum, Thai Trade Center, Chennai's Director Jittima Nakamano stated that the companies took part in this year's forum to attract a wider distribution market.
"Most participating companies manufacture hotel supplies and food and beverage products. Restaurant suppliers as well as home accessory manufacturers are also present", Nakamano said.
Nakamano said the forum acts as a platform that establishes strong links between Maldivian and Thai businesses.
"This is a good opportunity for companies to meet with exporters and manufacturers to expand their businesses", he said.
Most companies are new to the Maldives
The forum was first held in the Maldives in 2016. This year, Thai companies arrived for the forum with samples of their products ready to be marketed.
One of the manufacturing companies at the forum was Muenlee Global Traders. Resident Managing Director of the company Wingprawa Cookie explained that the company's products are suitable to the Maldivian market.
"We have ready to eat products that simply requires the addition of warm water, or heating before consuming. All our products are halal certified and it comes in different varieties such as Thai curry and Thai soup. The products are sealed in good quality packing and and is suitable for all markets including luxury markets" stated Cookie.
Vonor Five Star Company Ltd, a manufacturer of bedroom furniture was also present at the forum. Managing Director of the company Polpong Vorachitsanti said the company researched the Maldivian market prior to their arrival in Maldives.
"We are hopeful that there is a good market for resort supply products such as mattresses and other items. Maldives is a very peaceful country. We hope we benefit from this forum", he said.
Pisamai Kongwatmai, CEO of Nawa Inter Group Pvt Ltd, a manufacturer of high-end coffees and teas said their products will be special to the Maldivian market.
"Chi V [coffee brand] is an important product to Maldives. We also have a range coffee and tea products that helps with digestion", Pisamai stated.
Thailand is one of the main countries from which merchandise are imported to the Maldives. In 2018, goods worth US$ 200 million were imported from Thailand.
