Thai PM Anutin Inspects OTOP Fair, Samples Local Delicacies and Greets Vendors
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the 2026 OTOP Craft Fair at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, shopping for Thai products and engaging with local vendors.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected the 2026 OTOP Craft Fair at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani.
- The official opening ceremony is scheduled for Monday, August 10, drawing large crowds of shoppers.
- He explored various local goods, sampled Thai treats, and greeted a Chinese live-streamer in Mandarin.
- Vendors praised the Thai-for-Thai Plus project, to which the PM responded he would try to continue it.
On August 8, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, accompanied by his wife Thananont Charnvirakul, visited the IMPACT Challenger exhibition center in Nonthaburi, Thailand, to inspect the preparations for the 'Silpaphin Prateep Thai OTOP' fair 2026. The major cultural and handicraft event is scheduled to run from August 8 to 16 across Challengers 1 to 3.
The Prime Minister was joined during the inspection tour by key government figures, including Minister of Industry Varawut Silpa-archa, Permanent Secretary for Interior Atithirat Sampantharat, and Director-General of the Community Development Department Siam Sirimongkol. The premier is officially set to preside over the grand opening ceremony on Monday, August 10.
The OTOP Craft Fair showcases exquisite goods rooted in the SUPPORT Foundation initiated by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. This initiative plays a vital role in preserving traditional Thai craftsmanship, such as indigenous textiles and Yan Lipao basketry, while generating sustainable grassroots income across local communities throughout Thailand.
During his walkabout, the Prime Minister stopped by numerous booths featuring traditional foods, jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts. His first stop was at the Phet Ice Cream booth, where he ordered fresh coconut milk ice cream. He subsequently purchased roasted brown rice tea, local Yan Lipao wicker products, and Lin Lablae durian.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
As he strolled past a tie-dye clothing booth, Prime Minister Anutin paused to observe a Chinese YouTuber broadcasting a live sales session. Showing keen interest, he stepped forward to greet the online audience in Mandarin and wished all participating merchants successful business. Numerous visitors and local attendees also approached him throughout the venue to take photos and chat.
A notable highlight occurred when several vendors expressed high praise for the 'Thai-for-Thai Plus 60:40' economic initiative. When the Prime Minister asked if the program had been beneficial, vendors enthusiastically confirmed its success and inquired whether it would be extended. In response, the Prime Minister stated that he would do his best to keep it going.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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