BANGKOK, THAILAND (RFD News) — Thailand’s rapidly growing high-protein milk market is creating a stronger export opportunity for U.S. dairy ingredients, particularly whey protein used in ready-to-drink beverages. USDA says the segment more than doubled in value from 2023 through 2025.
The market grew from $73.4 million to $159.5 million during that period and could reach between $210.7 million and $255.9 million in 2026. High-protein drinks now appeal to more than fitness consumers.
Dairy-based products account for about 74 percent of market volume. Office workers, active seniors and consumers focused on weight management are helping expand demand for convenient protein beverages.
The United States supplied about $22.3 million of whey protein isolate to Thailand in 2025, representing roughly 60 percent of that import market.
Competition remains strong because Australia and New Zealand benefit from zero-tariff trade agreements, while U.S. ingredients face standard tariffs of 5-10 percent.
