Bangkok: The government is moving forward with upgrading Thai street food, launching the country's first "Thai Street Gold Star" app to support SMEs in reaching tourists and promote Thai food as a national strength.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is taking steps to enhance opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by elevating Thai street food to international standards. Mr. Napinthon Srisarppang, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, inaugurated the Roadshow Thailand Food Therapy Festival and the Thai Street Gold Star event, introducing the "Thai Street Gold Star" application. This initiative, led by the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP) in collaboration with Suan Dusit University and other partners, is being piloted in Bangkok, Chonburi (Pattaya), and Chiang Mai.
This project aligns with the government's policy to bolster the potential of SMEs and enhance the country's competitiveness. It aims to capitalize on the strengths of Thai street food to generate economic value, increase income for grassroots entrepreneurs, and establish Thai cuisine as a national asset. This effort is part of a broader strategy to position Thailand as a leading gastronomy and wellness destination, while aiming to increase the SME contribution to GDP to 40% within five years.
Thai street food has gained international acclaim, with Bangkok ranked by Time Out magazine as the 2nd best city for food globally in 2025, up from 6th place the previous year. The Banthat Thong area was also recognized as one of the best streets worldwide, underscoring the global appeal of Thai street food. The market value of Thai street food exceeds 261 billion baht and continues to grow, highlighting its potential as a crucial component of the country's grassroots economy and tourism sector.
The Thai Street Gold Star app is a digital platform that aggregates certified street food vendors, enabling locals and tourists to easily discover quality street food, recommended menus, shop locations, and travel information. It serves as a vital marketing tool, allowing small business owners to expand their customer base both domestically and internationally.
Certification requires businesses to meet three Thai Street Gold Star standards: Safety (food safety and hygiene), Signature (menu identity and uniqueness), and Service (service quality). This initiative aims to boost consumer confidence, raise the standards of Thai street food, and enhance their competitiveness in the tourism market.
Additionally, the project seeks to enhance entrepreneurs' skills through training in business planning, digital marketing, AI technology application, and food hygiene standards. Certified restaurants will participate in roadshows in Bangkok, Chonburi (Pattaya), and Chiang Mai, providing opportunities to test the market, engage with consumers, connect with tourists, and create tangible marketing and revenue opportunities.
"The government believes that Thai food and Thai street food are key strengths of the country. Upgrading standards coupled with the use of digital technology will enhance the competitiveness of entrepreneurs, generate income for SMEs, stimulate tourism, and sustainably elevate Thailand into a world-class destination for food and health tourism."