Carabao signs MOU to import Tsingtao beer, expanding presence in Thai and ASEAN markets 

THAILAND – Carabao Group has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Qingdao-Namyong to import and distribute Tsingtao Beer in Thailand, marking a major step in expanding its footprint in the Thai beer sector and the wider Southeast Asian beverage market. 

The trilateral signing ceremony was held on September 24, 2568, at Carabao Group’s headquarters.  

The agreement was formalized between Tsingtao Beer, Tawandang Brewery 1999 Co., Ltd. (a subsidiary of Carabao Group), Thai China Beverage Co., Ltd. (a subsidiary of Namyong Terminal), and Qingdao Beer (Hong Kong) Trading Co., Ltd. 

Prof. Dr. Bowornsak Uwanno, Deputy Prime Minister, described the cooperation as a “milestone” that will enhance international trade, particularly in consumer goods.  

He emphasized that the integration of expertise from the three partners would significantly contribute to boosting trade value between Thailand and China. According to the Ministry of Commerce, trade between the two countries reached US$105,000 billion last year. 

Jiang Zong Xiang, Chairman of Tsingtao Brewery, highlighted that the collaboration commemorates 50 years of Thai-Chinese relations while accelerating Tsingtao’s international business expansion. Tsingtao first entered the Thai market in the 1990s and has steadily grown its presence through a long-standing partnership with Namyong Terminal Public Company Limited. 

Currently, Tsingtao Beer products are available in more than 2,000 retail outlets across Thailand. By leveraging Carabao’s established distribution channels and advanced production technology, the partnership aims to expand sales further, targeting at least 20% growth in the first three years.  

The collaboration also includes consideration of localized production in Thailand to reduce logistics costs and improve efficiency in reaching consumers. 

Namyong will utilize its expertise in international cargo transportation to manage the import of Tsingtao Beer efficiently. The parties are also exploring future opportunities to export Carabao products to the Chinese market, strengthening bilateral trade ties. 

The cooperation is expected to pave the way for the introduction of new premium beer products while expanding beverage lines for both partners. This aligns with the growing consumer demand for premium beer in Thailand, despite fluctuations in the overall alcoholic beverage market. 

With more than 100 years of brewing heritage and a presence in over 120 countries and regions, Tsingtao Brewery aims to strengthen its position in Thailand and ASEAN by utilizing Carabao’s robust distribution network and production facilities. 

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