Why Is Funding Needed?
Investment is required to obtain Thai FDA certification. Securing this certification necessitates having a small factory certified as a production facility. Once certified, an application for a food production license can be submitted, enabling national sales in major supermarkets across Thailand.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Any changes or additions to product lineup anticipated? Will future sales be marketed to foreigners or Thais?
Numerous product ideas with tested recipes exist. Future sales will target both Thai and foreign customers. - What is the FDA and what licensing do they issue? What exactly is pending?
The FDA refers to the Thai Food and Drug Administration, which issues various licenses based on product specifications. The requirements, including lab tests, packaging, and labeling, have been thoroughly researched. Knowledge of pasteurization and food safety standards, aligned with U.S. health regulations, ensures readiness to meet Thai FDA testing criteria. - Is government approval or inspections of production facilities required?
Yes, this is the first and most crucial step. Without a certified factory, FDA approval cannot be obtained, which is the primary reason for seeking investment. - Are there any connections in the food industry?
Upon FDA licensing, pre-approval exists with most major supermarkets. Negotiations with supermarket managers at Makro and Big C have been ongoing, with product samples provided and positive indications to stock products once FDA certification is secured. - Will expansion plans wait for FDA approval?
Promotion could begin immediately, but it may create customer expectations without product availability. Therefore, it is preferable to wait until approval and initial distribution are established. Currently, sales occur in small supermarkets locally in Pattaya. - Is there a risk of receiving more orders than can be produced?
This is not a concern. Although fresh items are listed online, the focus will be on frozen and canned goods with long shelf lives, produced in scalable batches using recipe management software. With adequate equipment and staff, production volume can meet demand. - How long will it take to get a return on investment?
The expected return period is 6 to 12 months. After FDA approval, production can quickly increase, enabling product shipment to supermarkets and payment within typical 30-day terms. Experience with supermarket invoicing systems is already in place. FDA approval is anticipated within 3 months to a year, with legal expertise engaged to expedite the process. - What kind of percentage return can be expected?
This will be negotiated to reach an agreement beneficial to all parties. All investment expenses will be carefully tracked and documented. - How will the transaction be handled?
Part of the investment will cover legal fees and procedures. Transactions can be managed through either party’s legal representatives, ensuring full transparency and compliance with legal requirements.