A king's best friend: Thailand sees pet ownership boom

Businesses rush to grab a piece of billion-dollar market

20220614N Thai pet expo REUTERS

Thailand's pet owner population grew to combat the plague of COVID loneliness. © Reuters

KOSUKE INOUE, Nikkei staff writer

BANGKOK -- Thailand is becoming one of the fastest growing markets for the pet industry, with the bonanza sparked by the effects of COVID isolation and a special royal bond.

The boom was on full display at last month's Pet Expo, held in the Bangkok suburbs. Tens of thousands thronged the more than 300 booths featuring hawkers selling pet food, toys and services connecting animals in shelters with new owners. 

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