BANGKOK: Thailand is positioning itself to capitalise on the rapidly expanding global edible insect market, which experts predict will grow by 25.1 per cent annually between 2025 and 2030, as consumers worldwide increasingly turn to sustainable protein alternatives.
Already ranked as the world’s sixth-largest insect exporter, Thailand’s deep-rooted expertise in insect farming and growing domestic market acceptance provide a solid foundation for expansion in this emerging sector.
The shift toward insect protein comes as environmentally conscious consumers seek alternatives to traditional livestock farming, which generates approximately 14.5 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
By comparison, insect farming produces remarkably lower environmental impacts:
>Producing 1kg of insect protein generates just 1kg of CO2 equivalent: 27 to 40 times less than conventional livestock
>Requires give to 13 times less water and feed than cattle, pigs and chickens
>Can operate in limited spaces with significantly higher efficiency
While rising global temperatures pose challenges for traditional livestock – potentially reducing yields by up to 38 per cent – many insect species actually thrive in warmer climates, potentially accelerating production cycles.
This climate resilience could further strengthen Thailand’s position in the global market as traditional protein production faces increasing challenges from climate change.
For Thai farmers, insect farming represents a potentially lucrative opportunity:
>Initial investment for a basic cricket farm ranges from 45,000 to 75,000 baht (S$1,760 to S$2,930)
>Fresh insect sales can generate profits between 9,600 and 37,000 baht annually
>Processing insects into flour could increase profits to 260,000 baht per year
Land-use efficiency can generate up to 9,300 baht per sq m, significantly higher than the 1,500 baht per square meter from broiler chickens or dairy cows
The global edible insect market, valued at US$1.35 billion (S$1.76 billion) in 2024, is gaining traction, particularly in Europe, the Americas and East Asia.
Insects are increasingly being used in protein powders, bars and as ingredients in animal feed.
Thailand currently accounts for 6 per cent of the world’s total insect export value (approximately US$586,000), with the United States as the primary destination market.
Despite this potential, consumer acceptance remains a significant hurdle, with unfamiliarity and food safety concerns presenting obstacles to widespread adoption. The broader impacts of large-scale production also require careful monitoring.
Nevertheless, with appropriate government support and promotion of both domestic consumption and exports, Thailand’s edible insect sector could become a cornerstone of a more sustainable food system, generating substantial income while reducing environmental impacts. - The Nation/ANN
