UDONTHANI (NBT WORLD) – The Department of Business Development (DBD), Ministry of Commerce, has launched the second route of its LUCK initiative, visiting Udon Thani and Kalasin to spotlight outstanding local products and community craftsmanship.
Director-General Auramon Supthaweethum explained that LUCK, which stands for Lamphun, Udon Thani, Chumphon, and Kalasin, is a strategic project aimed at promoting Thai soft power through the unique strengths of each region.
The initiative also supports the development of a strong, sustainable “Thailand Brand” by highlighting local heritage, creativity, and innovation.
The journey began in Udon Thani, a modern hub for commerce and transportation in northeastern Thailand. The DBD team first visited Hattra Thai Fabric, a brand that combines traditional handweaving with modern “circular design.” Using leftover fabrics and natural dyes, Hattra creates elegant, eco-friendly textiles that reflect both cultural heritage and contemporary aesthetics.
Next, the delegation explored the Salt Spa, which has transformed locally sourced natural salt into wellness products. This community enterprise promotes health and relaxation while adding value to a regional resource.
Another highlight was the visit to Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient pottery. Local artisans today continue the 5,000-year-old tradition, creating beautiful and functional ceramics featuring the signature spiral pattern design.
The tour continued to Kalasin, where the team visited the renowned Phrae Wa silk, showcasing the intricate weaving techniques of the Phu Thai people passed down through generations. They also met with the Phu Thai Phai Ngam group, known for handwoven cotton textiles that blend traditional methods with modern design to produce clothing, accessories, and home decoration.
A key stop included the Mae Boonlum fermented fish sauce factory, which produces over 200,000 bottles per day for both domestic and international markets. The Director-General emphasized the importance of obtaining key product certifications such as FDA and Halal to boost consumer confidence and open more distribution channels.
The LUCK initiative continues to empower local communities by combining tradition with innovation, positioning local Thai products on the global stage while strengthening the grassroots economy.
Source: NNT
