On May 13, 2026, a delegation from the Wuhan Municipal Commerce Bureau, People’s Republic of China, led by Mr. Yuan Yongkang, Deputy Mayor of Hongshan District, together with representatives from the Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone Investment Promotion Office and the Exhibition Division of the Wuhan Municipal Commerce Bureau, visited Big C Supercenter Ratchadamri branch to discuss opportunities for expanding Thai products into the Central China market.
The meeting highlighted Wuhan’s strong interest in importing Thai products through Big C distribution channels. The Chinese delegation proposed the establishment of a “Thai Product Zone” or “Big C Zone” within shopping centers and exhibition venues in Wuhan to increase market access for Thai products among Chinese consumers.
Another key topic was the invitation for Thai businesses to participate in the Wuhan (Hankoubei) Commodities Fair 2026, scheduled to be held in October 2026. The event is regarded as a major trade and networking platform for businesses in Central China.
The Wuhan delegation also presented the city’s economic and logistics strengths as a strategic commercial hub with a population of approximately 14–20 million people and strong purchasing power. Compared to Southern China, the market competition for Thai products in Central China remains relatively open, creating significant opportunities for Thai consumer goods, food products, and specialty items.
In addition, the Chinese side introduced the advantages of Free Trade Zones and Cross-border E-commerce systems, which can help reduce logistics costs and provide tax and import facilitation benefits for international trade.
Representatives from Big C Supercenter stated that the company plans to begin by studying Chinese market demand while allowing Chinese importers and retailers to directly access Big C’s product network to support future business expansion.
Thai representatives also expressed appreciation to the Wuhan delegation for creating opportunities through roadshow activities and business networking initiatives. This cooperation represents another important step toward promoting Thai products in the Central China market through retail channels, trade exhibitions, and cross-border commerce platforms.
The Asian-International Trade and Investment Association believes that this collaboration will further strengthen future trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Thailand and China.
