Thailand's Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), under the Ministry of Commerce, will host the THAI SELECT Festival 2026 on July 21 at Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal in New York City. The event aims to strengthen the presence of authentic Thai cuisine in the United States, expand recognition of the THAI SELECT certification, and create commercial opportunities for Thai restaurants, food producers, and exporters.
The United States is one of Thailand's largest export markets for food products, making it a strategic focus for DITP. Through the festival, DITP seeks to connect American consumers with authentic Thai cuisine while reinforcing the competitiveness of Thai restaurants and promoting demand for premium Thai ingredients. Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi has graciously accepted to preside over the opening ceremony, underscoring Thailand's commitment to promoting Thai cuisine internationally.
Under the theme "Thai SELECT Playground – Play with Thai Flavors," the festival offers an immersive culinary experience with authentic flavors, regional specialties, cooking demonstrations, cultural showcases, and interactive activities. A major highlight is signature dishes prepared by 15 THAI SELECT-certified restaurants from across New York, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Thai cuisine.
Internationally acclaimed Thai actors Mile Phakphum Romsaithong and Apo Nattawin Wattanagitiphat will make special appearances, participating in fan activities while introducing authentic Thai cuisine to broader audiences. Their participation reflects Thailand's integrated approach to promoting culture, entertainment, and gastronomy as drivers of soft power and the creative economy.
The festival is part of DITP's broader strategy to strengthen the international competitiveness of Thailand's food industry by increasing global awareness of the THAI SELECT certification, encouraging wider adoption of Thai ingredients by overseas restaurants, and creating new opportunities for Thai food exporters. THAI SELECT is Thailand's official certification mark awarded by the Ministry of Commerce to restaurants and food products that meet standards of authentic Thai taste, quality, and culinary excellence.
As Thailand expands its global food industry presence, the THAI SELECT Festival 2026 demonstrates how culinary diplomacy can generate tangible economic value by strengthening consumer confidence, supporting Thai entrepreneurs overseas, and creating opportunities for trade, investment, tourism, and business partnerships between Thailand and the United States.
