Phetchaburi: The Department of Industrial Promotion (DIPROM) is advancing its "DIPROM FLEXi" initiative to revolutionize the traditional confectionery industry in Phetchaburi. This strategic move aims to assist entrepreneurs in aligning with a health-focused economy by promoting product innovation, enhancing shelf-life, and using data management technology for traceability, ensuring that modern Thai desserts meet international standards. The successful "Poon Kham Wan" model, which utilizes science and digital systems to add value, will guide efforts to propel the grassroots economy toward sustainable global markets.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Nattiya Netayasupa, Director-General of DIPROM, emphasized the department's commitment to upgrading the Thai confectionery industry through the "DIPROM FLEXi" policy. This approach is designed to cater to consumers' health-conscious behaviors and aligns with government policy. It supports entrepreneurs in developing products using high-quality local ingredients, such as the naturally sweet palm sugar from Phetchaburi province, while preserving the authentic taste of traditional Thai desserts. The initiative combines innovation and technology in inventory management, allowing for product and raw material traceability, enhancing quality control, enabling quick product recalls, and minimizing losses from expired goods.
Ms. Prae Lawanamal, owner of Pohn Kham Wan Co., Ltd., shared the evolution of her family's traditional alua business, which started with her grandmother's small shop. The business has grown significantly, gaining recognition among locals and tourists. As the third generation, Ms. Prae has incorporated scientific knowledge, innovation, and technology into the production process, ensuring the quality and freshness of the candies without preservatives. The brand 'Pohn Kham Wan' now offers a variety of innovative products, including low-sugar recipes and natural colorants, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The application of food technology in extending the shelf life of Thai desserts while maintaining their quality and flavor has elevated the image of Thai desserts to a premium level.
Ms. Prae also highlighted the benefits of participating in the Department of Industrial Promotion's confectionery cluster project, which brings together SMEs in Phetchaburi and neighboring provinces. The project provides valuable support, including expert consultation and advice tailored to the entrepreneurs' needs, product development, accounting, tax planning, and continuous access to information. Members can participate in training to enhance business capabilities and competitiveness, fostering a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs share experiences in product development and distribution.
In 2025, Pohn Kham Wan joined a project with D-Prom to develop a data management and traceability system for industrial factories, which aids entrepreneurs in planning back-end systems, such as data storage and verification, to improve inventory checks and production planning. In 2026, the company will engage in activities to boost online marketing and e-commerce using digital and AI tools, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of Thai enterprises through digital technology and expand sales channels.