Tesco China has pledged to increase the volume of fruit and vegetables it imports from Thailand, on the back of consumer demand, according to the Bangkok Post.
Tesco China’s import food director Jenny Kian said Chinese shoppers have shown trust in the safety and quality of Thai produce.
In recent times, the UK-based retail giant has worked alongside Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion to organise promotions in its Chinese stores, encouraging consumers to taste Thai durian, mango and longan.
Tesco has also partnered with Thailand’s Commerce Ministry over the last five years to run the Taste of Thailand promotional programme, mainly in its British stores.
“Tesco is committed to increasing Thai exports and has made good progress in driving export volume over the past five years,” Tesco corporate affairs director Salinla Seehaphan told the Post.
“Last year Tesco Lotus achieved export volume of Bt13.5bn (US$429m) (for fruit and vegetables), representing significant growth from the Bt8bn (US$254bn) recorded four years ago.”
Tesco expects the value of its fresh produce imports from Thailand to top Bt15bn (US$477bn) this year.
