In 2021, the share of the population living in urban areas in Thailand was around 52.2 percent, which was an increase from 2019. In comparison, Singapore is the only country in Southeast Asia that has 100 percent of urban population in the country.

This scatter chart displays urban population living in areas where elevation is below 5 meters (% of total population) against urban land area (km²) in Thailand. The data is about countries per year.

This dataset is about countries per year in Thailand. It has 64 rows. It features 4 columns: country, urban population living in areas where elevation is below 5 meters , and proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments.

Thailand TH: Population in Largest City: as % of Urban Population data was reported at 29.142 % in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 28.917 % for 2016. Thailand TH: Population in Largest City: as % of Urban Population data is updated yearly, averaging 35.514 % from Dec 1960 (Median) to 2017, with 58 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 40.429 % in 1969 and a record low of 28.054 % in 2010. Thailand TH: Population in Largest City: as % of Urban Population data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Thailand – Table TH.World Bank.WDI: Population and Urbanization Statistics. Population in largest city is the percentage of a country's urban population living in that country's largest metropolitan area.; ; United Nations, World Urbanization Prospects.; Weighted average;

In 2023, Thailand had a cost of living index score of ****, indicating a slight decrease compared to the previous year. In the Asia Pacific region, Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, had the highest cost of living index in that year.

The number of households in Thailand was forecasted to be approximately **** million in 2021, compared to ** million households in 2016. Rural Population in Thailand Thailand’s rural population mostly resides in the rice-growing regions, i.e. the central, northeastern, and northern regions. In 2018, approximately ***** million people lived in the rural area, which accounted for ** percent of the total population in Thailand. Nevertheless, Thailand’s rural population is declining as it has been over the past nine years. Urban population in ThailandAs Thailand has transformed into a more industrially orientated country, urban living and city life seemed to follow the development. Thai rural inhabitants started to migrate to urban areas and bigger cities such as Bangkok, as there were more job opportunities. Therefore, urbanization became a reality in Thailand, with the urban population accounting for 50.05 percent of the total population in 2019.

As of March 2023, retail sales grew by almost *** percent in Thailand. In 2022, the retail sales in the country had shown the highest growth in August, reaching around **** percent growth.

Food and beverage retail in Thailand The food and drinks market in Thailand is essential and diverse. It contributes gravely to the economy of the country. In 2021, approximately ** million tons of soy sauce was sold in Thailand, followed by fish sauce, and frozen and chilled meat. As the urban lifestyle became widely adopted by the Thai people, their consumption habits shifted. Leaning towards eating fast and convenient food, packaged foods come in handy. The sales value of packaged food and drinks in Thailand was the highest for dairy products in 2022, followed by rice, pasta, and noodles.

Major retailers in Thailand While the retailer market is shared by several major retailers such as CP All Plc, Central Group, and the Mall Group. In Thailand, CP All Plc is the largest retailer based on sales. In 2022, CP All Plc generated the total sales revenue of around ***** billion Thai baht. As an affiliated corporation of CP All Plc, 7-Eleven convenient stores are also one of the most successful modern retailers in Thailand with nearly ** thousand outlets nationwide.

This scatter chart displays urban population living in areas where elevation is below 5 meters (% of total population) against individuals using the Internet (% of population) in Thailand. The data is about countries per year.

Thailand TH: Rural Population Living in Areas Where Elevation is Below 5 Meters: % of Total Population data was reported at 4.051 % in 2010. This records a decrease from the previous number of 4.079 % for 2000. Thailand TH: Rural Population Living in Areas Where Elevation is Below 5 Meters: % of Total Population data is updated yearly, averaging 4.051 % from Dec 1990 (Median) to 2010, with 3 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 4.079 % in 2000 and a record low of 3.907 % in 1990. Thailand TH: Rural Population Living in Areas Where Elevation is Below 5 Meters: % of Total Population data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Thailand – Table TH.World Bank: Land Use, Protected Areas and National Wealth. Rural population below 5m is the percentage of the total population, living in areas where the elevation is 5 meters or less.; ; Center for International Earth Science Information Network (CIESIN)/Columbia University. 2013. Urban-Rural Population and Land Area Estimates Version 2. Palisades, NY: NASA Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center (SEDAC). http://sedac.ciesin.columbia.edu/data/set/lecz-urban-rural-population-land-area-estimates-v2.; Weighted Average;

This scatter chart displays rural land area (km²) against urban population living in areas where elevation is below 5 meters (% of total population) in Thailand. The data is about countries per year.

In 2023, Chiang Mai led among major cities in Thailand with the highest local purchasing power index score at **** points. This was followed by Bangkok with around ** index points.

Microwaveable Thai Curry Cups Market Outlook

As per our latest research, the global microwaveable Thai curry cups market size reached USD 1.12 billion in 2024, reflecting robust demand for convenient, authentic Asian cuisine. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 2.22 billion by 2033. Growth in this sector is driven by urbanization, a rising preference for ready-to-eat meals, and the increasing global popularity of Thai cuisine. The fusion of convenience and authentic flavor profiles has positioned microwaveable Thai curry cups as a preferred choice for both individual consumers and foodservice providers.

One of the primary growth factors for the microwaveable Thai curry cups market is the accelerating pace of urban lifestyles, which has led to a surge in demand for convenient meal solutions. With more people living in cities and working longer hours, the need for quick, easy-to-prepare meals has never been higher. Microwaveable Thai curry cups offer a unique blend of convenience and authentic taste, making them particularly appealing to time-pressed consumers. Additionally, the rise in dual-income households has further bolstered demand for such products, as consumers seek to minimize meal preparation time without compromising on flavor or nutrition. The market’s growth is also enhanced by the increasing penetration of microwaves and other kitchen appliances in emerging economies, which has made it easier for consumers to adopt these products as part of their regular meal routines.

Another significant driver is the global fascination with ethnic and international cuisines, particularly Thai food, which is renowned for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. The microwaveable Thai curry cups market has capitalized on this trend by offering a variety of curry types, such as red, green, yellow, Massaman, and Panang, to cater to diverse palates. Manufacturers are innovating with recipes and packaging to ensure that the taste and quality of these microwaveable products closely replicate traditional Thai curries. This authenticity, combined with the convenience of single-serve or multi-serve packaging, has attracted a broad consumer base, including millennials and Gen Z, who value both culinary exploration and ease of preparation. The increasing availability of these products across multiple retail channels, including supermarkets, convenience stores, and online platforms, further supports the market’s growth.

Health and wellness trends have also played a pivotal role in shaping the microwaveable Thai curry cups market. Today’s consumers are more conscious about the ingredients in their food, seeking options that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and excessive sodium. In response, manufacturers have introduced healthier variants that use natural ingredients, offer lower calorie counts, and cater to specific dietary needs such as vegan, gluten-free, and low-sodium options. This focus on health-conscious formulations has expanded the market’s appeal, attracting not only traditional consumers of Thai cuisine but also those with specific dietary requirements. Furthermore, the rise of sustainable packaging solutions, such as recyclable or biodegradable microwaveable cups, resonates with environmentally aware consumers and adds another layer of value to the product offering.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific continues to dominate the microwaveable Thai curry cups market, supported by strong demand in Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and China. However, North America and Europe are rapidly emerging as significant markets due to growing multicultural populations and the mainstreaming of Thai cuisine in these regions. In North America, the United States leads with a large share of the market, driven by high microwave penetration and a robust network of supermarkets and online retailers. Europe is witnessing similar trends, with the United Kingdom, Germany, and France showing increasing adoption rates. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also experiencing gradual growth, propelled by expanding retail infrastructure and rising disposable incomes. The regional diversification of demand underscores the global appeal and versatility of microwaveable Thai curry cups, making them a key player in the evolving ready-meal segment.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the microwaveable Thai curry cups market is ca

Detailed cost of living comparison between Thailand and Mexico

Thai Street Food Restaurant Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Thai Street Food Restaurant market size reached USD 13.8 billion in 2024, reflecting the robust global appetite for authentic and innovative Thai culinary experiences. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period, reaching USD 26.8 billion by 2033. This growth trajectory is underpinned by rising international tourism, increasing urbanization, and a growing consumer preference for ethnic and experiential dining. The expanding global footprint of Thai cuisine, coupled with evolving consumer lifestyles and the proliferation of food delivery platforms, continues to drive the market forward, as per our latest research findings.

One of the primary growth factors for the Thai Street Food Restaurant market is the surging global demand for authentic and diverse culinary experiences. Consumers across the globe are increasingly seeking out unique food offerings that reflect local cultures and traditions, and Thai street food, known for its vibrant flavors and variety, perfectly fits this trend. The proliferation of food-centric social media platforms has further amplified the visibility of Thai street food, making dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tum, and Mango Sticky Rice household names far beyond Thailand’s borders. The rise of food tourism, where travelers prioritize culinary experiences as a key part of their journeys, has also contributed significantly to the increased patronage of Thai street food restaurants both within Thailand and in major cities worldwide.

Another significant driver is the evolution of the restaurant industry itself, particularly the adoption of technology and innovative service models. The widespread integration of digital ordering, contactless payments, and third-party delivery services has revolutionized the way consumers access Thai street food. These advancements have not only enhanced convenience and accessibility but also enabled restaurants to expand their customer base beyond traditional dine-in patrons. In addition, the growth of cloud kitchens and virtual brands specializing in Thai street food has further diversified the market, allowing operators to optimize costs and scale rapidly in response to fluctuating demand. Coupled with an increasing focus on food safety and hygiene, these technological and operational innovations are propelling sustained growth in the sector.

Furthermore, the Thai Street Food Restaurant market is benefiting from supportive government policies and initiatives aimed at promoting Thai cuisine as a key element of national identity and tourism. The Thai government, through various culinary diplomacy programs, has actively supported the international expansion of Thai restaurants, providing training, certification, and marketing assistance to entrepreneurs. This institutional backing, combined with a strong diaspora community and a global network of Thai chefs, has facilitated the proliferation of Thai street food establishments in regions such as North America, Europe, and the Middle East. These efforts have not only elevated the profile of Thai cuisine but have also fostered innovation, leading to the emergence of fusion concepts and regional specialties tailored to local tastes.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market continues to dominate the Thai Street Food Restaurant landscape, accounting for the largest share of global revenues in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the deep-rooted street food culture in Thailand and neighboring countries, high population density, and a vibrant tourism sector. However, significant growth is also being observed in North America and Europe, where increasing multiculturalism, rising disposable incomes, and a growing appetite for ethnic foods are driving expansion. In these regions, urban centers with large student populations and cosmopolitan demographics are particularly fertile ground for Thai street food concepts. Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa and Latin America are emerging as promising markets, buoyed by urbanization and a young, adventurous consumer base.

Frozen Thai Meals Market Outlook

As per our latest research, the global frozen Thai meals market size reached USD 1.13 billion in 2024, reflecting the rising international appetite for convenient, authentic Asian cuisine. The market is experiencing robust momentum, with a CAGR of 8.4% projected from 2025 to 2033. By leveraging this impressive growth rate, the market is forecasted to reach USD 2.26 billion by 2033. The surge is driven by increasing consumer demand for ethnic flavors, urbanization, and the expansion of modern retail formats, which are collectively transforming the way consumers access and enjoy Thai cuisine worldwide.

One of the primary growth drivers for the frozen Thai meals market is the growing global fascination with international and ethnic cuisines. Consumers are increasingly seeking new and exotic food experiences, and Thai cuisine, known for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients, has gained universal appeal. The convenience of frozen meals allows consumers to enjoy restaurant-quality Thai dishes at home without the need for specialized cooking skills or hard-to-find ingredients. This trend is particularly pronounced in urban areas, where busy lifestyles and dual-income households are fueling the demand for quick, easy-to-prepare meal solutions. Additionally, the proliferation of food blogs, cooking shows, and social media has amplified the visibility and desirability of Thai cuisine, further propelling market growth.

Another significant factor contributing to the expansion of the frozen Thai meals market is the ongoing innovation in product offerings and packaging. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to create frozen meals that closely mimic the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of freshly prepared Thai dishes. This includes the use of flash-freezing technology, clean label ingredients, and portion-controlled packaging, all of which enhance the appeal of frozen meals to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Furthermore, the introduction of premium and specialty products, such as vegan, gluten-free, and organic Thai meals, is broadening the marketÂ’s consumer base and fostering brand loyalty among niche segments.

The rapid expansion of modern retail channels, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online retail platforms, is also playing a pivotal role in the growth of the frozen Thai meals market. Enhanced cold chain logistics and improved distribution networks are ensuring the wider availability and accessibility of frozen Thai meals, even in regions where Thai cuisine was previously considered niche. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the shift towards at-home dining and online grocery shopping, with consumers increasingly turning to frozen meals for convenience and variety. This shift in consumer behavior is expected to have a lasting impact, supporting sustained market growth well into the forecast period.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific dominates the frozen Thai meals market owing to the prevalence of Thai cuisine and a strong culture of frozen food consumption in countries like Thailand, Japan, and South Korea. North America and Europe are also emerging as lucrative markets, driven by a growing multicultural population and the increasing popularity of Thai restaurants and takeout options. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America, while currently smaller in market share, are witnessing rising demand due to urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the proliferation of international retail chains. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, influenced by cultural preferences, regulatory frameworks, and consumer awareness.

Product Type Analysis

The frozen Thai meals market is segmented by product type into ready-to-eat meals, ready-to-cook meals, meal kits, and others. Among these, ready-to-eat meals hold the largest market share, driven by their unparalleled convenience and time-saving attributes. Consumers, especially urban professional

This dataset, created by ODM, aggregates data from various sources to build out data relating to SDG indicators of interest for the Lower Mekong Region. It is updated on a regular basis. See also the following resources: - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg3-c-1-health-worker-density-by-type-of-occupation-per-10-000-population-for-lmcs - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-3-8-2-proportion-of-population-with-large-household-expenditures-on-health-at-10-of-household-t - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-8-dataset - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-12-dataset - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-4-dataset - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-10-dataset - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-5-dataset - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-1-available-data - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-9-dataset - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-2-available-data - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/population-and-proportion-in-urban-slums-lmcs-sdg11-1-1 - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/data-on-sdg-7-tier-i-indicators-lmcs-only-all-custodian-agencies - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/wash-dataset-1990-215 - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/proportion-of-urban-population-living-in-slums - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/population-density-from-1995-to-2013-thailand-myanmar-laos-vietnam-and-cambodia - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-index-dashboards-report - https://data.opendevelopmentmekong.net/dataset/sdg-indicator-15-1-1-forest-area-as-a-proportion-of-total-land-area?type=dataset

Shelf-Stable Thai Meal Pouches Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global shelf-stable Thai meal pouches market size reached USD 1.02 billion in 2024, reflecting robust consumer demand for convenient and authentic ethnic cuisine options. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% over the forecast period, with projections indicating a value of USD 1.96 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by shifting consumer lifestyles, increased demand for ready-to-eat international meals, and a growing preference for Thai flavors across key regions. As per our latest research, the market’s expansion is supported by innovations in packaging technology and the strategic penetration of shelf-stable meal pouches in both developed and emerging markets.

One of the primary growth factors fueling the shelf-stable Thai meal pouches market is the ongoing globalization of food consumption patterns. Consumers worldwide are increasingly seeking diverse culinary experiences, and Thai cuisine, known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices, has gained significant popularity. The convenience of shelf-stable meal pouches, which require minimal preparation and offer a long shelf life without refrigeration, aligns perfectly with the fast-paced lifestyles of urban populations. This convenience factor, coupled with the rising number of dual-income households and single-person families, has significantly contributed to the surge in demand for ready-to-eat Thai meal solutions, making them a staple in both homes and on-the-go consumption scenarios.

Another crucial driver is the advancement in food preservation and packaging technologies. Manufacturers are leveraging innovative packaging solutions such as retort and vacuum-sealed pouches, which maintain the freshness, flavor, and nutritional value of Thai meals over extended periods. These technologies also ensure product safety and compliance with stringent food safety regulations, which is especially important for international distribution. Furthermore, the integration of eco-friendly and recyclable packaging materials is resonating with environmentally conscious consumers, enhancing brand loyalty and market reach. The ability to offer authentic Thai flavors in a shelf-stable format has opened new avenues for manufacturers to cater to export markets, particularly in regions where access to fresh Thai ingredients is limited.

The proliferation of modern retail channels is another pivotal growth catalyst for the shelf-stable Thai meal pouches market. The expansion of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online retail platforms has improved product visibility and accessibility, allowing consumers to easily discover and purchase a wide variety of Thai meal pouches. E-commerce, in particular, has emerged as a critical distribution channel, enabling brands to reach a broader audience and offer direct-to-consumer services. Strategic partnerships with retail giants and foodservice operators have also played a significant role in market penetration, as Thai meal pouches are increasingly featured in travel, hospitality, and institutional catering settings. The synergy between innovative product offerings and robust distribution networks continues to drive the market’s upward trajectory.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market dominates in terms of both production and consumption, owing to Thailand’s role as a primary origin for authentic Thai meal pouches and the region’s growing urban middle class. North America and Europe are experiencing rapid growth, driven by rising interest in ethnic cuisines and the expansion of Asian food aisles in mainstream retail outlets. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa represent emerging markets with untapped potential, supported by urbanization and increasing exposure to global food trends. The regional dynamics are further influenced by trade agreements, evolving import-export policies, and the localization strategies adopted by leading manufacturers to cater to diverse consumer preferences.

Product Type Analysis

The shelf-stable Thai meal pouches market is segmented by product type into Ready-to-Eat Thai Curry Pouches, Thai Noodle Meal Pouches, Thai Rice Meal Pouches, and Others. Among these, Ready-to-Eat Thai Curry Pouches hold the largest market share, owing to the global popularity of traditional Thai curries such as green curry, red curry, and massaman curry. These products are favored for their rich taste p

Bangkok's rental market shows a strong preference for condominiums, with demand far outpacing that of single houses and townhouses. This trend reflects the evolving housing needs in Thailand's bustling capital, where urban living and convenience are increasingly prioritized by renters.

In 2018, the share of urban population living in slums in Myanmar amounted to 56.1 percent. Comparatively, just under 14 percent of the urban population in Vietnam were living in slums in 2018.

This bar chart displays urban population living in areas where elevation is below 5 meters (% of total population) by ISO 3 country code using the aggregation average, weighted by population in Thailand. The data is about countries per year.