Following the Thai-Cambodian border closure, which disrupted the cross-border trade of fruits and vegetables, Thailand's Ministry of Commerce has partnered with Thai AirAsia to support domestic farmers. As reported by ThaiPost, Thai AirAsia will purchase 1,000 tons of longan, mangosteen, and Phu Lae pineapple directly from farmers to develop new food and beverage offerings on its flights starting July 2025.
The initiative aims to create added value for surplus produce while preventing post-harvest losses. Menus will include longan-based dishes like Hat Yai fried chicken with longan sauce, mangosteen salads, and pineapple-themed items such as Hawaiian pizza and chilli paste. These products will be served across Thai AirAsia and Thai AirAsia X domestic and international routes throughout 2025.
The Ministry is encouraging more private sector participation in similar programs to help stabilise prices and support fruit growers during the ongoing harvest season.
Source: ThaiPost