Introduction – Thailand’s Candies Market by the Numbers
Thailand isn’t just famous for its tropical beaches and spicy cuisine—it’s also a serious player in the global candies game. With a well-established confectionery industry and a strategic export position, Thailand continues to be a vital supplier of sweet treats to markets around the world.
In 2025, Thailand’s confectionery market is expected to generate a whopping $6.71 billion in revenue. That’s not just a lot of sugar—it’s a clear signal that this market is expanding rapidly. But behind the sweetness lies a layer of complexity. Export volumes are shifting, buyer trends are evolving, and international policies are shaking things up.
That’s why businesses need a data-driven approach to choose the right suppliers. Whether you’re a wholesaler, importer, or food distributor, identifying reliable, high-performing candy exporters is crucial. Platforms like Freshdi can help you tap into real-time supplier metrics, RFQ trends, and verified vendor profiles to make smarter decisions.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Demand Insights
Let’s unwrap the numbers.
Production and Export Volumes: A Bittersweet Decline
Thailand’s candied fruit exports, a significant segment of its candy industry, have seen a slight dip in volume over the last couple of years:
- In 2023, exports hit 57,000 tons, a 7.8% decrease from 2022.
- By 2024, the number dropped further to 54,000 tons, down 4.6% year-over-year.
Though volumes declined, this doesn’t necessarily mean a shrinking industry—it could reflect shifts in product categories, quality upgrades, or global demand recalibrations.
Export Values: Stability Amidst Volume Fluctuations
The value story is a bit different:
- 2022: $225 million
- 2023: Dropped to $212 million
- 2024: Slight rebound to $222 million
This bounce-back in value suggests that Thai exporters are either moving toward higher-margin products or that global prices are adjusting upward.
Key Export Destinations: Where The Candy Goes
- United States: Still the biggest fan, taking in 33% of all Thailand’s candied fruit exports in 2023.
- Other sweet-toothed nations include the Netherlands, Japan, and China.
This diversification is a plus—it spreads out risk and opens up opportunities for exporters.
Market Demand: What Buyers Are Asking For
According to insights from Freshdi, RFQ (Request for Quotation) volumes for Thai candies have remained strong, especially from North America and Southeast Asia. Even with the dip in physical exports, demand signals suggest a steady global appetite for Thai-made sweets.
And the future looks even brighter:
- The chocolate segment within Thailand’s confectionery market is projected to hit $332 million by 2030, growing at a 5.3% CAGR from 2025 onward.
Recent Developments: Trade Deals & Setbacks
- In August 2023, a strategic partnership between Thailand’s Wellspire Holdings and Malaysia’s Khee San Food Industries gave the local candy scene a boost.
- But in February 2025, a sugar syrup import ban from China caused Thai firms $60 million in losses, showing just how sensitive the market is to international trade policies.
Top 6 Verified Candies Suppliers in Thailand – Leading Exporters by Volume
Based on export data, certifications, and buyer feedback on Freshdi, here are the top six candy suppliers in Thailand for September 2025.
1. Pro Overseas Co., Ltd.
A veteran exporter with strong global ties, Pro Overseas focuses on high-quality, value-added candy products. Known for consistent delivery schedules and excellent packaging standards.
2. JSB Candy Co.
Specializing in innovative flavors and unique textures, JSB is a go-to for buyers seeking differentiated products. Their strong presence in Asia and Europe makes them a top-tier choice.
3. Thaiaree Food And Friends Co., Ltd.
This supplier has carved a niche in organic and health-focused candies. With sustainability certifications and a growing customer base, Thaiaree is a rising star in the export scene.
4. T.Thai (93) Co., Ltd.
If reliability and high-volume capacity are what you’re looking for, T.Thai (93) delivers. They are a preferred vendor for bulk candy importers in the U.S. and Japan.
5. Northern Food Co Ltd.
With an emphasis on traditional Thai flavors and premium fruit-based candies, Northern Food has strong traction in gourmet and ethnic food markets globally.
6. Aref On Exporting Company
Aref On is known for its fast turnaround times and customized offerings. Their flexible MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) make them attractive to small and medium buyers.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Supplier rankings on platforms like Freshdi can shift monthly, thanks to real-time data updates. Be sure to check out Freshdi’s “Suppliers of the Month” feature to catch rising stars and trending exporters.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Understanding the ebb and flow of candy exports isn’t just about numbers—it’s about recognizing the patterns behind the sweetness.
Variant Popularity: What’s Hot, What’s Not
Data from Freshdi shows a few key trends:
- Fruit-based candies are leading the charge in Europe and the U.S.
- Herbal and natural candies are gaining attention in wellness-focused regions like Japan and South Korea.
- Chocolate-coated fruit candies are emerging as a hybrid trend.
Seasonal Pricing: Sweet Spots for Buyers
Historically, export prices dip slightly after the Thai New Year (Songkran) in April and rise again around Q4 holidays. Smart buyers use this window to lock in better deals for bulk orders.
Purchasing Strategy: Learn from the Past
Looking at 3-year price and volume trends can help buyers anticipate shifts. For instance, the 2023-2024 decline in volume was offset by value stability, suggesting a quality-over-quantity transition.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Optimized Supply Chains
Thailand’s candy industry is more than just sugar and spice—it’s a dynamic, data-rich arena that rewards smart strategy. By tapping into verified metrics, export trends, and real-time supplier insights, businesses can build more resilient and profitable supply chains.
Whether you’re sourcing for retail, wholesale, or private label, choosing the right suppliers isn’t a gamble—it’s a calculated decision. And platforms like Freshdi arm you with the tools to make that decision with confidence.
Checklist for Candy Buyers – 2025 Edition
- ✅ Review export volume and value trends
- ✅ Focus on suppliers with verified certifications
- ✅ Check monthly RFQ trends on Freshdi
- ✅ Time your purchases to seasonal price dips
- ✅ Watch for geopolitical or trade policy changes
- ✅ Use Freshdi’s analytics tools to vet suppliers
Future Outlook – What’s Next for Thai Candies?
Looking ahead, we can expect:
- More health-conscious innovations in product lines
- Greater digital integration for supply chain transparency
- A push toward sustainable sourcing and packaging
- Continued market diversification beyond the U.S.
With robust platforms like Freshdi, importers and distributors can stay ahead of these trends and build lasting supplier relationships.
FAQs
1. What makes Thailand a strong exporter of candies?
Thailand has a long-standing confectionery tradition, a skilled labor force, and access to tropical ingredients like fruits and herbs, making it a top player in candy exports.
2. How can I verify a supplier’s credentials?
Using platforms like Freshdi, you can check supplier certifications, export histories, and buyer reviews to ensure authenticity.
3. When is the best time to buy candies from Thailand?
Right after the Thai New Year (April) and before global holiday spikes (August–October) are typically the best times to secure favorable pricing.
4. Are small-scale buyers welcome by these suppliers?
Yes! Many suppliers, like Aref On Exporting Company, offer flexible MOQs ideal for startups and smaller importers.
5. What types of candies are trending in 2025?
Fruit-based, herbal, and chocolate-coated candies are all gaining popularity, especially in health-conscious and gourmet markets.
References
- IndexBox – Thailand Candied Fruit Exports 2023
- IndexBox – Thailand Candied Fruit Exports 2024
- Statista – Thailand Confectionery Market Outlook
- MarkNtel Advisors – Thailand Chocolate Market
- Latest Malaysia News – Wellspire & Khee San Deal
- Reuters – China Sugar Syrup Ban Impact
