According to recent data from the Commerce Ministry, Thailand continues to hold the title of the world's largest natural rubber producer and the top global condom exporter. In 2022, the Southeast Asian nation shipped condoms worth $272.3 million, with China, the United States, and Vietnam being the most significant importers of Thai-made contraceptives.
Thailand's dominance in the global condom market has increased, with the nation accounting for 44% of the world market, up from 43.7% in the previous year. The country also dominates the export of durians, which is the fourth-largest agricultural product in value terms, with exports worth $3.22 billion. While rubber and fruit account for less than 10% of Thai exports, the total still makes up more than half of the country's economic output.
However, the Thai government expects a decline in outbound commerce this year due to slowing global demand, with exports in March dropping by 4.2% compared to the same period last year. Additionally, Thailand's share of durian exports decreased slightly in 2022 after Vietnam received approval to send durians to China, Thailand's largest buyer. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, the director-general for the Ministry's trade policy and strategy office, warns that exporters need to be cautious as they are losing market share and that Thailand needs to diversify its risk by reducing its reliance on China.
Overall, Thailand's position as the world's top condom exporter and a leading producer of natural rubber and durians remains strong, but the country must prepare for potential shifts in demand and competition in the global market.