ส.อ.ท. จับมือ DITP ปั้น SME ไทยบุกตลาดโลก เสริม “ความพร้อม–โอกาส–ช่องทางการค้า”FTI Collaborates with DITP to Propel Thai SMEs into Global Markets, Enhancing "Readiness–Opportunities–Trade Channels"

The expansion of international markets for Thai SMEs entails not just having products, but also being equipped with knowledge, market insights, channels, and business networks. Therefore, FTI, through the SMI Institute, is moving forward to discuss with the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) to connect the government’s support tools with entrepreneurs and create a pathway from preparedness to actual trade opportunities.

On August 17, 2026, Mr. Narongrit Panichchiva and Dr. Nawarat Songsawadchai, Vice Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), along with Mr. Viboon Hongsreejinda, Vice Chairman of the Small and Medium Enterprises of the Manufacturing Industry Institute (SMI), and their team met with Ms. Sunantha Kungwanakulkit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) at the DITP, Ministry of Commerce, to introduce the operational direction of FTI under the agenda “The New Chapter of Thai Industry” and to discuss pathways to elevate Thai SMEs to international markets.

Transitioning from “Preparation” to “Actual Market Entry”

One of the key issues is the expansion of the SMEs Pro-active project to provide Thai entrepreneurs with continuous opportunities to participate in overseas trade fairs. Discussions will include flexible usage rights that align with the needs of entrepreneurs, under the regulations and budget of DITP.

This approach will ensure that SME support extends beyond information provision to encompass connections with customers, partnership development, and opening new markets, which are crucial steps in turning opportunities into viable businesses.

Targeting the Chinese Market with “Real Information” Not Just Understanding

Another significant collaboration is the development of the China Business Survival Program, proposed by FTI to DITP and the Office of Promotion of International Trade (OPIT) in China, which will share knowledge and in-depth information regarding the Chinese market, including market trends, consumer behavior, opportunities in various regions, as well as risks and conditions that entrepreneurs must be aware of before entering the market.

The goal is to ensure that entrepreneurs who complete the “Know the Market Before Entering” course can build upon this knowledge to participate in trade fairs and create business opportunities under the implementation of DITP as appropriate.

Connecting the 5I Strategy with SME Opportunities

This discussion also presented the vision “The New Chapter of Thai Industry” and the 5I strategy of FTI, which emphasizes the use of technology and AI, the creation of innovation, the expansion of international collaboration networks, infrastructure development, and sustainable growth.

The collaboration between FTI and DITP aims to create a supportive system that connects “Knowledge → Preparedness → Market Entry → Trade Opportunities,” ensuring that Thai SMEs are not only “competitive but also capable of entering international markets and achieving tangible growth.