Mr. Yongyuth Wichaidith said the objective of the event is to uplift the standard of “One District – One Product” as well as improve its resources and marketing channels in preparation to the coming together of ten ASEAN nations. During the event, some 2,131 OTOP products were displayed, including food, beverages, silk and woven fabrics, clothing, decoration items and a variaty of non-human-consumption herbs, alongside other activities held in honor of the Queen on the occasion of the 80th birthday anniversary. In addition, there was ‘OTOP Street’ which presented different products and countless demonstrations from local knowledge and production processes to local investment and standardisation of products by experts.

On this occasion, the Prime Minister revealed that the event held today was part of continuous effort of the Foundation For the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen (or SUPPORT) with an effort to support career development and create sustainable growth in involved communities. In keeping with this, the government expressed its willingness to continue to support such efforts.

With regards to further development of OTOP, the government has focused on the following channels: 1) the increase of marketing capacity with Commence Ministry’s effort in opening up a wider consumer market; 2) assistance in expanding cooperatives, developing research database of food and health products, as well as providing sources of funding for entrepreneurs and investment consulting; and 3) development of products in 4 different categories: products that can be produced in bulks, products that require craftsmanship, products that require machinery and those that can be easily produced.

The premier said further that, with current support, the government has collaborated with a number of entities such as Interior Ministry, Industry Ministry, Labour Ministry, Commence Ministry and Foreign Ministry. In particular, it aims to improve both materials and marketing efforts with an aim to enhance current productivity and create sustainable communities.

PM Yingluck also visited various booths at the event.