2025-02-15
Chiang Rai is at the center of northern Thailand's border trade when the major trade fair "Chiang Rai - Northern Border Trade Festival 2025" is organized between February 12 and 16, 2025. The festival aims to strengthen the local economy and expand trade opportunities between Thailand and its neighboring countries.
Regional cooperation and subregional trade
Held at Lan Tham Lan Sin Thin Phaya Mangrai in Chiang Rai, the festival is a collaboration between public and private stakeholders, as well as companies within the Northern Special Economic Zone. The initiative is part of a sub-regional trade development project involving countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), BIMSTEC and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).
Chiang Rai Deputy Governor Norasak Suksomboon, Commerce Minister Nathaporn Mahapaiboon, and Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce Chairman Pakpoom Phonphisit unveiled the festival at a press conference on February 7, 2025 at the Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel & Convention.
Focus on cross-border trade and business networks
The main aim of the festival is to strengthen the border economy by promoting trade and investment. A key feature is the Business Matching on 13 February 2025, where over 100 import and export companies from Thailand and abroad gathered at the Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel to make new business contacts.
In addition to business networking, the festival features exhibitions and sales of selected products from 17 provinces in northern Thailand. Visitors can enjoy agricultural products, processed goods and local crafts that reflect the region's culture.
Culture and entertainment
The festival also offers cultural performances, folk music and mini-concerts with famous artists. In addition, “golden minute” offers with limited-time discounts and raffles are arranged to attract visitors.
Strengthens Thailand's position in the region
“Chiang Rai – Northern Border Trade Festival 2025” is not only a trade fair but also a platform for long-term cooperation and economic growth in northern Thailand. By forging stronger ties with Laos, Myanmar and China, as well as facilitating cross-border e-commerce, the event contributes to strengthening the competitiveness of Thai companies in the ASEAN market.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: Lemonmintmint, Pixabay, original image