London: The Prime Minister presented Thai SELECT certificates to certify the standards of Thai restaurants in London, underscoring the government’s initiative to leverage the food industry as a cultural soft power that generates economic value. The dish ‘Miang Kham’ has become a prominent menu item in Thai restaurants across England.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman of the Prime Minister’s Office, announced that on May 22, 2025, at 10:15 a.m. in London, Team Thailand, led by Mr. Ekkachat Sitawarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, and Mr. Pornwich Sila-on, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion, organized a public relations event for the new Thai SELECT logo. The event was presided over by Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, who awarded certificates to 20 Thai SELECT restaurants as part of the Thai government’s policy to promote Soft Power in the food sector and enhance the global presence of Thai cuisine. Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra highlighted the importance of promoting “Thai food,” a cultural identity renowned for its taste, quality, and meticulous preparation, and emphasized the significance of establishing a network of Thai restaurants abroad to promote Thai identity and economic growth.

Following the certificate presentation, the Prime Minister engaged in a Thai cooking demonstration featuring ‘Miang Kham’ with Thai chefs from Thai SELECT restaurants. The demonstration was attended by over 20 local influencers and media representatives. The event continued with a dialogue with the private tourism sector, organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, to discuss strategies for enhancing Thai tourism in the United Kingdom and promoting Thailand’s soft power. Thai restaurants in England are increasingly offering Miang dishes, particularly those with renowned British chefs or owners, as these dishes showcase a variety of Thai ingredients and flavors.

Thai SELECT is a recognition bestowed by the Ministry of Commerce on Thai restaurants and ready-to-eat Thai food products that meet certain standards and offer authentic Thai flavors. The certification now features the ‘Orchid Star of Honor’ symbol to signify international quality and authentic Thai flavors. The certification includes four levels:

1. Thai SELECT Casual – for restaurants with a friendly atmosphere, such as small eateries or food trucks.

2. Thai SELECT 1 star – for quality restaurants offering Fine-Casual Dining.

3. Thai SELECT 2 stars – for quality restaurants providing Upscale Dining experiences.

4. Thai SELECT 3 stars – for premium Thai restaurants.

Globally, there are more than 18,852 Thai restaurants, with 1,779 having received the Thai SELECT symbol since 1988. In the United Kingdom, 115 restaurants in cities like London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh have been certified by the Ministry of Commerce. This initiative harnesses cultural power, with ‘Thai food’ at the forefront, to enhance Thailand’s global standing in terms of economy and tourism, while reinforcing its image through Soft Power.