BANGKOK, July 14 — Malaysia’s franchise trade mission to Bangkok, Thailand, in conjunction with the ongoing Thailand Franchise and Business Opportunity 2023 (TFBO) is expected to attract investments worth RM30 million.

Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) secretary-general Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof said 10 Malaysian brands — Marrybrown, Kenny Rogers Roasters, US Pizza, Cleanpro Express, Deemcee, Global Art, UCMAS, HOME, Q-dees and Little Caliph — are participating in TFBO held from July 13-16 at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre.

This year, he said, TFBO has attracted about 7,000 investors from 36 countries, including Malaysia.

“TFBO is an important platform for the Malaysian franchise industry to seize opportunities to diversify their franchise business into Thailand.

“The mission planned under the Enhanced Franchise Development Programme is aimed at encouraging the expansion of Malaysian brands to Thailand and securing potential investors through a business matching programme.

“KPDN is working closely with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA) and industry players to achieve the target and double the momentum,” he said in a statement.

He said Malaysian franchise brands have expanded into renowned brands worldwide, with more than 68 brands in 80 countries.

Azman, leading the Malaysian delegation in an official working visit, attended the Malaysia Pavilion launch at TFBO on Thursday. Also present was Malaysia’s ambassador to Thailand Datuk Jojie Samuel.

Meanwhile, Azman also chaired a dialogue session participated by Franchise & License Association of Thailand (FLAT) president Suttichai Panitnarakul and MFA chairman Prof Dr Azmawani Abd Rahman as well franchise industry players from Malaysia and Thailand.

He said that the topics discussed included the processes or procedures that must be complied with for Malaysian franchises to enter the Thai market under the food and beverages and childhood education categories.

Furthermore, he said, Malaysia and Thailand will strengthen their cooperation based on the border economy model through discussions with the parties involved.

Azman said the halal certification issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) is recognised in countries such as Thailand, offering an advantage for Malaysian franchise businesses to expand to Thailand.

In 2021, the franchise industry in Malaysia chalked up sales of RM30 billion, up from RM14.6 billion in 2020. — Bernama