Mr. Nitiphong Laowisit, Director of the Thai Pet Product Industry Association (TPIA), revealed that the Thai pet market continues to expand steadily. It is expected to grow by an average of 4-5% per year between 2025 and 2026. While not as dramatic as during the COVID-19 pandemic, it reflects a new, more stable balance. Many consumers view pets as family members, leading to continued growth in spending on pet food, products, and services. The pet food business remains a key battleground. Over the past two to three years, the number of Thai pet food brands has increased from fewer than 100 to over 400, a fourfold increase (or 300% increase from the original base). Meanwhile, pet stores nationwide have expanded by more than four to five times. While fierce competition has slowed growth for existing players, it reflects the expanding consumer base and strong market demand.

Mr. Pawat Ajjamalayawara, President of the Exotic Pet Enthusiasts Association (TEPA), stated that the exotic pet market in Thailand has grown steadily over the past five years, transforming from a niche market into a broader one. New breeders and farms have emerged, with popular pets including small mammals (mice, rabbits, ferrets, sugar gliders, and raccoons), birds (macaws, cockatoos, sun conures), reptiles (snakes, turtles), and amphibians and tarantulas. Factors driving this popularity include the fact that exotic pets are easy to care for, do not disrupt lifestyles, and have long lifespans. However, they face high costs due to environmental management and food imports. Meanwhile, the growing number of specialized veterinary hospitals and veterinarians for exotic animals reflects the need for more systematic services. Currently, Thailand not only imports rare animals but also breeds exotic pets in six main groups: reptiles, small mammals, birds, turtles, amphibians, and invertebrates. This demonstrates the market's continued growth potential.

Ms. Kunlawadee Jintaworn, Executive Director of IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., Ltd., stated that to cater to the growing pet ownership trend, the 15th "SmartHeart Presents Thailand International Pet Variety Exhibition 2025" returns with a grand theme of "Retro K-Style - ANNYEONG, Your Best Friend Explores Korea." The event will elevate itself from a typical pet trade show into a comprehensive lifestyle pet exhibition, encompassing products, services, a health zone, fashion, a cafe, shows, competitions, and a rare exotic animal zone to meet the needs of Gen Z pet parents, new-generation families, and the growing exotic animal enthusiasts in Thailand.

Pet owners now view their pets as "family members," so this year's event has been designed to cover a wider range of needs, including a pet health and insurance zone, a cafe and lifestyle shopping zone, as well as competitions and a fashion show that allow owners and pets to engage closely. The event will feature a retro K-Style atmosphere, aligning with the K-culture trend, which remains popular both in Thailand and abroad. The highlight of the event is its blend of fashion, lifestyle, and pet cuteness, creating an atmosphere that makes visitors feel like they're "bringing their pets to a fair" rather than just buying products. This clearly differs from typical pet events.

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