OSMEP and Suan Dusit University Launch "Thai Street Gold Star" to Elevate Street Food Vendors Nationwide with AI and Safety Standards

The Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP) has partnered with Suan Dusit University to launch the "Thai Street Gold Star" project under the Therapy Festival and Thai Street Gold Star initiative. Funded by OSMEP’s SME Promotion Fund, this strategic program aims to integrate AI, digital innovations, and international safety standards into Thailand’s street food sector, connecting the grassroots economy with the booming tourism and wellness industries. The pilot phase will onboard approximately 1,000 certified vendors across Bangkok, Chonburi, and Chiang Mai.

Mr. Napinthorn Srisunpang,  Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, emphasizedthat SMEs drive the national economy with over 3 million enterprises and 10 million workers. With tourism generating over 3 trillion Baht (nearly 20% of GDP), the government aims to bridge wellness tourism with street food by standardizing hygiene and safety through the newly launched "Thai Street Gold Star" application. The AI-powered platform will help international travelers easily search for certified venues, analyze consumer behavior, and recommend customized culinary and health routes.

Ms. Panita Shinawatra, Acting Director-General of OSMEP, stated that the project reduces operational costs for SMEs by providing POS digital tools for inventory, sales analysis, and budgeting. Meanwhile, Mr. Chanasuek Nichanont, Vice President for Administration, Research, and Innovation at Suan Dusit University, noted that the university will deploy its standardized food laboratories to rigorously test ingredients for contaminants and promote green economy practices. Highlighting the grassroots impact, Mr. Arthit Phoonarae, owner of the Yum Gayray restaurant in Bangkok, expressed optimism that this state-backed digital integration will significantly expand his business reach among Chinese and Vietnamese tourists.