Thailand Non-Alcoholic Beverages Market- Trend Analysis & Forecasts

The Non-alcoholic beverages market in Thailand was valued at US$ ** billion in 2024 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of **% from 2025 to 2030. Thailand’s non-alcoholic beverages market is experiencing robust growth driven by changing consumer lifestyles, health consciousness, tourism, and regional trade. Valued at approximately US$ ** billion in 2023, the market is forecast to reach US$ ** billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of **%. The country’s strategic position in ASEAN, coupled with advancements in production and packaging technologies, makes it a key player in the global beverage value chain. Market growth is further fueled by rising domestic consumption, innovative product launches, and the expanding urban population.

Market/ Product Overview

The non-alcoholic beverages market in Thailand is diverse, spanning bottled water, carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, ready-to-drink (RTD) tea and coffee, energy drinks, and functional beverages. In 2024, bottled water remains the largest segment, contributing nearly **% to total revenues. Thailand’s beverage industry is structured with a mix of large multinationals, such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, and strong local brands like Oishi and Ichitan. The market is currently benefiting from post-COVID recovery, tourism resurgence (expecting 35 million tourists in 2025), and increasing per capita beverage consumption, which reached ** liters per annum in 2023.

Urbanization (reaching 52% in 2024), higher disposable incomes, and growing health awareness are shaping consumption patterns. Consumers are shifting from sugary sodas to healthier alternatives such as infused water, green tea, and organic juices. Thailand’s strong distribution infrastructure—especially through modern trade outlets like 7-Eleven and Big C—further accelerates market penetration. E-commerce is also playing a pivotal role, accounting for nearly **% of total beverage sales in 2024, a figure expected to double by 2030.

Thailand Beverages Consumption Trend

The non-alcoholic beverages consumption trend in Thailand is marked by a consistent rise in both volume and value. In 2024, the country consumed ** billion liters of non-alcoholic beverages, up from ** billion liters in 2021. This growth is driven by lifestyle changes, a growing fitness culture, and wider beverage accessibility across urban and rural areas.

Consumers are showing a distinct shift toward functional beverages, such as vitamin-enhanced waters, plant-based drinks, and RTD herbal teas. Ready-to-drink coffee and milk tea are especially popular among millennials and Gen Z, accounting for **% of RTD beverage sales in 2024. The trend is further propelled by aggressive marketing, celebrity endorsements, and packaging innovations targeting younger consumers. Moreover, the average Thai consumer now spends approximately US$ ** annually on non-alcoholic beverages, reflecting increased product engagement and brand loyalty.

Thailand’s Significance in the Global Non-alcoholic Beverages Supply

Thailand holds strategic importance in the global non-alcoholic beverages supply chain due to its geographical location, strong manufacturing capabilities, and active trade links within ASEAN and beyond. As of 2024, Thailand exports non-alcoholic beverages worth over US$ ** million annually, primarily to markets like Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and the Middle East.

The country has developed a robust infrastructure with over 450 beverage production units, supported by state-of-the-art bottling and packaging facilities. Government initiatives like the “Thailand 4.0” policy are encouraging the development of high-tech food and beverage manufacturing hubs. Moreover, the country’s advanced cold chain logistics system facilitates the export of chilled and perishable beverages efficiently.

Thailand is also a hub for innovation, with R&D investments from global players like Nestlé and Suntory, who use Thailand as a testing ground for launching health-based and premium beverage products. Furthermore, the country’s participation in the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and other regional trade agreements gives Thai manufacturers preferential access to a consumer base of over ** million people.

Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Production Trend

Thailand’s production of non-alcoholic beverages has steadily increased in the past decade. In 2023, production volumes reached ** billion liters, with bottled water and soft drinks constituting over **% of total output. Increased investments in automation and sustainable production technologies have significantly enhanced efficiency and output quality.

Major production clusters are located in the Central (Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya), Eastern (Chonburi), and Northern (Chiang Mai) regions. Companies are focusing on producing health-centric beverages using indigenous Thai ingredients like pandan, lemongrass, and coconut water. A growing share of production is also targeting export markets, accounting for nearly **% of total production in 2024.

Efforts toward carbon neutrality and green manufacturing—such as solar-powered bottling plants and recyclable PET packaging—are helping producers align with global sustainability goals. Thailand’s beverage industry employs over 95,000 people and contributes approximately 1.4% to the nation’s GDP as of 2024.

Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Demand Trend

Domestic demand for non-alcoholic beverages in Thailand is on a rising curve, supported by urbanization, health awareness, and lifestyle changes. In 2024, demand is estimated at ** billion liters, with bottled water, RTD tea, and functional beverages showing the highest growth.

Demand for sugar-free and low-calorie options has surged due to increased incidences of diabetes and obesity; currently, over **% of beverage products launched in 2024 carry “low sugar” or “no sugar” labels. Consumption is also influenced by tourism, which adds significant volume to the foodservice channel—particularly in resort cities like Phuket and Pattaya.

The younger demographic (aged 15–35), constituting 30% of Thailand’s population, is the primary growth driver. Their preference for flavored waters, energy drinks, and Instagrammable beverages has prompted rapid innovation and marketing agility. RTD coffee and milk-based beverages, for example, have grown at an annual rate of **% since 2020.

Market Growth Factors

Several key factors are propelling the growth of Thailand’s non-alcoholic beverages market. First, demographic and socio-economic dynamics are central: Thailand’s growing middle class, higher disposable income (THB 17,400 monthly average in 2023), and urban lifestyles favor convenient, on-the-go beverage options. Second, the surge in health consciousness is reshaping consumption, leading to an increased demand for fortified drinks, vitamin waters, and plant-based alternatives.

Third, innovation in packaging and product format is making beverages more attractive, especially to younger consumers. Tetra Pak, aluminum cans, and resealable PET bottles dominate the landscape. Fourth, e-commerce and digital marketing channels have enhanced brand accessibility—platforms like Shopee and Lazada have reported a 35% year-on-year rise in beverage sales in 2023.

Fifth, supportive government policies under the “Bio-Circular-Green Economy” framework are promoting sustainable beverage production and export incentives. Thailand’s growing foodservice and hospitality sector, expected to reach US$ ** billion by 2027, also serves as a critical distribution channel for premium and RTD beverages. Lastly, robust investments from multinational corporations are bringing global standards, technology, and quality controls into Thailand’s beverage ecosystem.

Market Restraints & Challenges

Despite its upward trajectory, the Thai non-alcoholic beverages market faces several constraints. Chief among them is rising production costs due to inflationary pressures and supply chain disruptions, particularly in sourcing imported ingredients like flavor concentrates and packaging materials. These factors caused a **% rise in input costs between 2022 and 2024.

Moreover, the introduction of the sugar tax—initially implemented in 2017 and revised in 2023—has compelled producers to reformulate products, leading to increased R&D expenditures. Consumer price sensitivity also remains high in rural regions, limiting the market reach of premium products.

Market saturation in urban centers presents another challenge. Large players dominate shelf space in convenience stores, limiting opportunities for SMEs and new entrants. Regulatory compliance, particularly concerning food safety and labeling, is stringent and adds to operational burdens. Environmental concerns related to plastic packaging and water usage are also drawing increased scrutiny from both authorities and consumers.

Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Industry: Supply Chain Constraints & Value Chain Challenges

Thailand’s beverage supply chain, while mature, faces periodic bottlenecks. One major issue is logistics fragmentation, especially in rural or mountainous areas, which leads to inconsistent delivery schedules and increased last-mile costs. Additionally, there is a high dependency on imported raw materials—like flavorings and specialized packaging—which exposes the industry to foreign exchange volatility and global supply disruptions.

Cold chain infrastructure remains underdeveloped in certain regions, affecting the quality of chilled beverages. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of the sector to shocks in labor availability and transport mobility. Moreover, inefficient inventory management at the distributor level often leads to product stockouts or wastage, particularly for beverages with short shelf lives.

Thailand’s beverage manufacturers also face a shortage of skilled labor for operating advanced processing equipment. Regulatory delays in the approval of new ingredients or packaging technologies further extend time-to-market for innovative products. All these factors contribute to higher operational costs and reduced agility in responding to consumer demand.

Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Market Segmentation

The Thai non-alcoholic beverages market is segmented into bottled water, carbonated soft drinks, RTD tea and coffee, fruit and vegetable juices, energy drinks, dairy-based beverages, and functional drinks. Bottled water continues to dominate with a **% market share in 2024, followed by carbonated soft drinks at **%.

RTD tea and coffee collectively account for **% of the market, with strong performances from brands like Ichitan and Birdy. Fruit juices, both 100% and juice drinks, hold a **% share and are particularly popular among health-conscious and female consumers. Energy drinks, led by local brands like M-150 and Carabao, enjoy high rural penetration and account for **% of the market.

Functional beverages, including electrolyte drinks and vitamin-enhanced waters, have witnessed the highest growth at a CAGR of **% between 2020 and 2024. Dairy-based beverages, such as flavored milk and yogurt drinks, make up **% and are often targeted toward children and teenagers. Product segmentation is becoming increasingly nuanced with growing demand for plant-based and organic beverage alternatives.

Consumer Preference of Type of Non-alcoholic Beverages

Consumer preferences in Thailand are shifting rapidly. While carbonated soft drinks still maintain loyalty among older consumers, younger segments show a clear preference for health-forward options. RTD tea, especially green tea and oolong, is preferred by **% of millennials, according to a 2024 Mintel study.

Bottled water remains a staple due to trust in safety and convenience, while demand for flavored and alkaline waters is rising. Energy drinks are popular among the working-class and rural male demographic. Functional beverages like vitamin C-enriched drinks saw a 23% increase in sales post-pandemic.

Taste, packaging, health claims, and price are the four key drivers of consumer decision-making. There is a noticeable shift toward products with clear labeling, natural ingredients, and no preservatives, especially among the urban middle class. Premiumization trends are also visible in RTD coffee and dairy-based beverages.

Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Trade (Export & Import) Trend

Thailand’s trade in non-alcoholic beverages has shown resilience and expansion. In 2024, total exports reached US$ ** million, up from US$ ** million in 2021. The main export destinations include Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and China. Energy drinks and RTD tea dominate the export portfolio, accounting for **% of outbound trade.

Imports, on the other hand, stood at US$ ** million in 2023, mostly comprising premium juices, sparkling water, and innovative functional drinks from Japan, South Korea, and Europe. The growth in imports reflects a rising demand for diverse and health-oriented beverages among Thailand’s affluent urban consumers.

Thailand benefits from low-tariff access within ASEAN and strong bilateral trade ties. The implementation of digital customs clearance and improvements in port infrastructure have further streamlined trade logistics. However, trade growth is occasionally hampered by packaging compliance regulations and ingredient disclosure norms imposed by importing countries.

Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Market Competitive Analysis

The market is characterized by intense competition between international giants and local champions. Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestlé, and Suntory dominate the multinational segment, particularly in carbonated drinks and bottled water. Local brands like Ichitan, Oishi, Carabao, and Tipco lead in RTD tea, energy drinks, and fruit juices.

Private label brands are also gaining ground in modern trade and e-commerce platforms, offering competitive prices and niche health variants. Marketing strategies revolve around celebrity endorsements, festival promotions, and sustainability messaging. Brand loyalty is strong, but consumers are open to switching for innovation or better health benefits.

Product differentiation, efficient distribution, and local flavor customization are key success factors. Innovations in packaging and functionality—such as collagen-infused drinks or sleep-enhancing herbal waters—are being used to capture niche segments. Competitive pricing and aggressive promotion are crucial in penetrating rural markets.

List of Key Companies in Thailand Non-alcoholic Beverages Market

■ Coca-Cola (Thailand) Ltd.
■ PepsiCo Services Asia Ltd.
■ Ichitan Group Public Co. Ltd.
■ Oishi Group Public Co. Ltd.
■ Carabao Group PCL
■ Tipco Foods Public Co. Ltd.
■ Nestlé (Thai) Ltd.
■ Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand)
■ ThaiNamthip Ltd.
■ Malee Group PCL
■ Sermsuk Public Co. Ltd.
■ Dutch Mill Co. Ltd.
■ Unilever Thai Trading Ltd.
■ Tera Food & Beverage Co. Ltd.
■ CP-Meiji Co. Ltd.

Future Outlook

The Thailand non-alcoholic beverages market is poised for sustained expansion through 2030. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of **%, reaching US$ ** billion by the end of the decade. Growth will be anchored in continued urbanization, health consciousness, tourism revival, and digital transformation of the retail ecosystem.

Innovations in product formulation—such as nootropic beverages, plant-based energy drinks, and gut-friendly probiotics—will define the next growth frontier. Export volumes are expected to grow at 6.5% annually, with new opportunities in the Middle East and Africa. Sustainability and eco-packaging will shift from optional to essential, driven by evolving consumer expectations and environmental policies.

As Thailand continues to integrate into global supply chains and strengthen its R&D capabilities, it will evolve from being a regional hub to a key global influencer in non-alcoholic beverage trends. The industry’s alignment with health, technology, and sustainability will be critical in shaping its competitive edge.