MHESI Joins Partners to Launch SPACE-F Batch 7, Pushing Thai FoodTech to the Global Stage, Highlighting the Wellness Economy as a New Economic Engine
Thailand has launched the seventh batch of the SPACE-F program in collaboration with corporate and academic partners to elevate the local food tech sector and promote the wellness economy.
In Bangkok, Thailand, a major collaborative effort was announced on May 1, 2026, to advance the nation's position in the global food technology sector. The initiative, known as SPACE-F Batch 7, is specifically designed to push Thai food tech innovations onto the global stage. A central focus of this new phase is the strategic highlighting of the wellness economy, which officials and organizers are positioning as a new economic engine for the country's future growth.[1][2][3]
The launch event was officially led by Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, who holds the dual roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, commonly referred to as MHESI. Under his leadership, the Ministry is working closely with the National Innovation Agency, a public organization also known as the NIA, to coordinate the comprehensive food technology program and ensure its alignment with national economic objectives.[1][2][3]
To achieve the goals of SPACE-F Batch 7, the government has established partnerships with prominent academic and corporate entities. Mahidol University is providing academic and research support, while major industry players are participating as leading corporate partners. These corporate collaborators include Thai Union Group PCL, Thai Beverage PLC, and Nestlé (Thai), all of whom are joining forces with the public sector to foster innovation and elevate Thailand's wellness and food technology industries internationally.[1][2][3]
