The Commerce Ministry has launched the Local+ project to increase income for low-income earners by identifying and supporting local products in three categories: bio-, circular and green (BCG), innovation and identity.
The initiative aims to serve consumers' shifting concerns about the environment and health, while increasing income within local communities.
Keerati Rushchano, the permanent secretary for commerce, said the Local+ project focuses on three categories of products: BCG products, emphasising natural resources, environmental conservation, health and organic products; identity products, aimed at preserving local wisdom, cultural values, uniqueness and geographical indication (GI) products; and innovative products, enhancing the competitiveness of community products.
The ministry will provide assistance related to production knowledge, product development and market expansion to make goods that align with domestic and international demand, he said.
The ministry will also increase marketing channels for manufacturers to generate income for the country, said Mr Keerati.
Provincial commerce officers have been assigned to act as provincial sales representatives and select the best potential products in nationwide under the three categories.
"The ministry is assembling a product database to promote production, product development, design and storytelling to create special characteristics and add value to local products," he said.
"This will enable consumers to know about Local+ products and expand markets."
Mr Keerati said the ministry would use five strategies to promote the Local+ products: building knowledge about marketing among farmers and entrepreneurs; database development for local products; market expansion; organising the Thailand International Local+ Expo 2023 in June to increase knowledge of marketing strategies and quality standards; and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs and establishing online business matchmaking.
He said the ministry also intends to promote a variety of Local+ products to meet the changing demands of customers in the domestic and international markets.
"It would be risky if domestic entrepreneurs fail to make products that align with changing consumer behaviour given growing health and environment concerns," said Mr Keerati.
The Local+ project will focus on quality products that differ from regular goods produced in communities, such as Otop products, he said.
The ministry aims to generate 650-700 million baht in sales revenue from the local products under the Local+ project in the first year of operation.
Some 200 entrepreneurs have been identified as potential participants in the project, said Mr Keerati.
