Introduction – Thailand’s Fresh Onion Market: A Quantitative Overview
Thailand may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of fresh onions, but the country is rapidly cementing its role in the global onion trade. With the global demand for fresh onions rising, Thailand is playing catch-up by boosting its export capabilities and opening up new trade routes.
In 2022, Thailand produced around 36,300 metric tons of dry onions. While this is a modest figure compared to past decades (316,000 metric tons in 1997), it’s crucial to remember that numbers don’t tell the full story. Thailand is becoming a strategic re-export hub, leveraging its trade infrastructure and regional partnerships to carve out a niche in the onion export space.
For business buyers, this means opportunity. But it also means doing your homework. Choosing the right supplier is no longer about who grows the most onions — it’s about who can deliver quality, scale, and reliability. That’s where data-driven platforms like Freshdi come in, offering real-time RFQ trends, supplier verification, and trade analytics to guide smarter sourcing decisions.
Let’s dive into the details.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
Thailand’s onion industry is riding a wave of transformation — driven by fluctuating production, growing import reliance, and a sharp rise in exports.
Production Trends
Thailand’s domestic onion production hit 36,300 metric tons in 2022. While that’s a far cry from its 1997 peak, it reflects a stabilization in recent years. Factors like urbanization, climate change, and crop diversification have reshaped the agricultural landscape.
Import Dependency
To meet growing demand, Thailand imported 140,000 tons of dry onions and shallots in 2024. That’s a 34% jump from the previous year. China led the pack, supplying 65% of these imports, followed by Myanmar (12%) and Australia (10%). The most interesting stat? Australia’s exports to Thailand grew at a whopping 84.1% CAGR from 2014 to 2023.
Export Surge
Despite modest production, Thailand is punching above its weight in exports. Between November 2023 and October 2024, it shipped over 1,000 onion consignments — a 79% increase year-over-year — generating $20 million in revenue. Key markets include the U.S., Vietnam, and Bangladesh.
Market Signals via Freshdi
Freshdi’s RFQ data backs this up. The number of onion-related RFQs on the platform rose sharply in early 2025, indicating increased global interest in Thai onions. Verified buyers are actively engaging with Thai suppliers, validating Thailand’s growing export role.
Price Trends
Farmers in Chiang Mai recently reported a spike in prices — from 30,000 to 70,000 baht per rai — thanks to favorable weather and better storage life. This has boosted profitability and encouraged more farmers to re-enter onion cultivation.
Government Support
In early 2024, the government purchased over 23,000 tonnes of onions and garlic from northern provinces to stabilize prices and support farmers. These interventions are helping maintain supply stability and encourage exports.
Top 4 Verified Fresh Onion Suppliers in Thailand – Top Tier Based on Export Data
These suppliers were selected based on export volume, international certifications, buyer feedback on Freshdi, and trade consistency. If you’re looking for reliable partners, these are the names to watch.
1. UNIVERSAL AGRIC PRODUCTS COMPANY LIMITED
- Specialty: Red, white, and yellow onions in various sizes.
- Packaging: 10kg, 15kg, and 20kg mesh bags.
- Certifications: GAP, HACCP, ISO.
- Export Markets: USA, Vietnam, Middle East.
- Why They’re on the List: Consistently ranks among the top exporters on Freshdi with high buyer ratings and strong logistics capabilities.
2. SIAM EXPORT GROUP CO., LTD.
- Specialty: Bulk and pre-packed onions for wholesale trade.
- Certifications: GLOBALG.A.P, BRC.
- Export Markets: Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia.
- Why They’re on the List: A top performer in Q2 2025 with a surge in RFQs and positive feedback on delivery timelines.
3. THAI AGRO FOODS CO., LTD.
- Specialty: Organic and conventional onions.
- Certifications: USDA Organic, GMP.
- Export Markets: Europe, South Korea, GCC countries.
- Why They’re on the List: Known for premium quality and traceability; featured in multiple Freshdi “Suppliers of the Month” rankings.
4. MAE PING AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS
- Specialty: Small-batch, high-quality onions from Chiang Mai.
- Certifications: Thai FDA, GMP.
- Export Markets: Japan, Singapore, Australia.
- Why They’re on the List: Strong regional presence and fast-growing export volume make them a rising star.
Dynamic Ranking Note
Supplier rankings may change based on seasonal activity, buyer reviews, and export volume. Platforms like Freshdi regularly update “Top Suppliers of the Month/Quarter,” so be sure to check back for the latest movers and shakers.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Understanding the fresh onion market isn’t just about knowing who exports the most. It’s about timing, pricing, and product type.
Fresh Onion Variants in Demand
Based on trade data and RFQs on Freshdi, red onions remain the most requested variant in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Yellow onions, while less common in Thai farms, are gaining traction in Western markets due to their longer shelf life.
White onions are niche but premium — used in gourmet kitchens and processed food sectors.
Seasonal Pricing Dynamics
Onion prices in Thailand see seasonal fluctuations tied to harvest cycles and weather. Key seasons include:
- March-April: High prices due to limited supply.
- July-August: Lower prices, peak harvest.
- October-December: Slight uptick in demand due to global holidays.
Buyers can use historical data from Freshdi to plan purchases during low-price windows and avoid high-season premiums.
Trade Tips
- Plan RFQs 2 months in advance to lock in better prices.
- Use volume tiers to negotiate better deals.
- Prioritize certified suppliers to avoid customs issues and ensure quality.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
Thailand may not be the biggest onion producer, but its strategic export growth, improved infrastructure, and government support make it a compelling player in the global onion trade. For buyers, this opens up a world of opportunity — but only if you back your decisions with solid data.
That’s where platforms like Freshdi become game-changers. By offering verified supplier profiles, RFQ analytics, and real-time market trends, Freshdi helps you source smarter, faster, and more confidently.
Whether you’re a wholesaler looking for bulk shipments or a retailer entering a new market, choosing one of the Top 4 Fresh Onion Suppliers in Thailand for Q2 2025 is a smart first step.
Key Takeaways
- Thailand exported over 1,000 onion consignments in 12 months, earning $20 million.
- Imports are rising, but exports are expanding even faster.
- Verified suppliers on Freshdi are leveraging certifications and logistics for global reach.
- Seasonal pricing and variant demand should shape your buying strategy.
- Freshdi offers real-time insights and supplier verification for informed sourcing.
Buyer’s Checklist for Sourcing Fresh Onions from Thailand
✅ Check supplier certifications (GAP, HACCP, GLOBALG.A.P)
✅ Monitor seasonal trends to time your purchase
✅ Use Freshdi to track RFQs and pricing trends
✅ Choose suppliers with proven export history
✅ Plan logistics early to avoid delays in peak season
Future Outlook – What’s Next for Thailand’s Onion Exports?
With improved farm yields, growing international interest, and ongoing government support, Thailand is set to become a regional hub for onion re-exports. Expect to see more suppliers entering the market, better cold-chain logistics, and rising demand from South Asia and the Middle East.
For buyers, staying plugged into platforms like Freshdi means staying ahead of these trends.
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers
- Verified Supplier Listings – No more guesswork or fake profiles.
- Live RFQ Trends – Know what’s hot and who’s buying.
- Export Track Records – See who’s shipping where and how often.
- Market Insights – Get updates on pricing, harvest cycles, and more.
- Negotiation Tools – Compare offers and request quotes, all in one place.
References
- Freshdi – Top 7 Onion Suppliers in Thailand
- Bangkok Post – Onion Sale Prices Rise
- Bangkok Post – Government Support for Onion Farmers
FAQs
1. What’s the best time to buy fresh onions from Thailand?
March to April sees higher prices, so it’s better to plan ahead and buy during July-August when prices dip.
2. Are Thai onion suppliers reliable for bulk international orders?
Yes. Verified suppliers on platforms like Freshdi are export-ready, certified, and experienced in global trade.
3. Can I request custom packaging or labeling for my onion order?
Most top suppliers offer flexible packaging options, especially for wholesale buyers. Check supplier profiles on Freshdi for customization options.
4. What onion variants are most exported from Thailand?
Red onions lead in exports, followed by yellow and white onions depending on the destination market.
5. How does Freshdi help in choosing the right supplier?
Freshdi offers live RFQ data, supplier performance ratings, export history, and direct communication tools — everything you need for smart sourcing.
