Thailand Week 2026 opens in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines —  The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Philippines led the opening of the four-day Thailand Week 2026 in Cebu the other, highlighting the growing economic partnership between Thailand and the Philippines and the role of regional cooperation within Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

 In her speech, Ambassador the ambassador Makawadee Sumitor expressed appreciation to the Cebu City government for its support, noting that the exhibition reflects strong commercial, investment, and people-to-people ties between Thailand and the Philippines.

 “MSMEs are the backbone of our two countries and ASEAN. They generate employment, income, and business value chains locally and across the region,” Sumitmor said.

 The ambassador emphasized the significance of this year’s Thailand Week as the Philippines assumes the ASEAN chairmanship, noting that the event promotes intra-ASEAN trade, strengthens regional supply chains, and supports inclusive economic growth.

 Sumitmor also highlighted Cebu’s role as a major economic hub in the Visayas and a gateway for international trade, citing strong air connectivity, including direct flights between Cebu and Bangkok.

 “Thailand Week 2026 in Cebu is about creating new business opportunities, strengthening bilateral trade, and deepening regional economic cooperation within ASEAN,” she said.

 Meanwhile, Sutinee Vathana, director of Thai Trade Center in Manila said that the four-day exhibition connects Thai producers, exporters, importers, buyers, and distributors with Filipino businesses, featuring more than 50 Thai companies showcasing food and beverages, health and beauty products, household items, fashion, and lifestyle goods.

  For his part, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival assured continued support for future initiatives that will enhance cooperation between Thailand and Cebu, particularly in trade, culture, and tourism.

 “Rest assured that we will continue to support the future programs and projects of Thailand, our good neighbor, as we strengthen our partnership here in Cebu City,” the mayor said.

 Meanwhile, Reagan King, president of Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) siad Thailand Week is more than an event. It is a celebration of partnership, trade, and culture between Thailand and the Philippines.

 He noted that for the past four years, the initiative has connected Thai and Cebuano entrepreneurs and showcased innovation, quality products, and collaboration between businesses.Thailand Week 2026 includes cultural performances, Thai cooking demonstrations, and business-matching activities that highlight both trade and cultural ties between the two countries.