Asia Fruit Logistica has announced the first round of speakers for its Southeast Asia event, taking place on May 18 and 19, 2026, at the JW Marriott Hotel in Bangkok.
This conference and networking event brings together key decision-makers from across Southeast Asia and beyond for a day packed with information, talks, and discussions on the region’s dynamic fresh produce markets.
The high-quality program, organized by industry partner Asiafruit Magazine, begins with a comprehensive analysis of Southeast Asia’s evolving consumer landscape.
Carlo Magni, Global Director of Consumer Analytics at Forward Insight & Strategy, will present the landscape with an expert analysis of the factors influencing consumer attitudes in key markets and explain how innovation and branding can drive growth. The event will feature a panel of senior executives from leading retailers and suppliers, who will discuss key purchasing trends, market opportunities, and category strategies. Among the speakers are Gunn Vitidphapatumrong, Associate Commercial Director of Imported Fruits and Vegetables at Thai food retail giant CP AXTRA; Sam White, Country Director for Thailand at T&G South East Asia; and Jose Vottero, Managing Director of Fresh Fruit-X.
While China continues to set the standard in digital marketing, online channels are rapidly gaining traction in Southeast Asia. How, then, can fresh produce marketers leverage digital tools to strengthen their brands? Ryan Molloy, CEO of Redfern Digital, offers a strategic overview of the fresh produce digital and retail landscape in the region, highlighting key growth opportunities driven by shifting consumer behavior and the rise of e-commerce and social commerce.
“I’m excited to bring a practical, best-practice-based perspective to the market on how fresh produce brands can succeed in the increasingly competitive and digital markets of Southeast Asia,” said Molloy.
The program also examines how Latin American suppliers are intensifying their efforts to expand into Southeast Asian markets. Major exporting countries like Chile and Peru are driving diversification beyond China, thanks to faster shipping times and strategic investments in logistics. Erick Aponte, Trade Commissioner and Director of the Peruvian Trade Commission (PromPerú) for ASEAN, and Gonzalo Matamala Ortiz, General Manager for Asia at Frutura, a leading supplier to the Americas, analyze the latest developments and explain how the shift in trade flows could reshape the region’s import markets.
Other sessions in the SE ASIA Meet Up program explore the rise of tropical fruits in Asia, as well as the emergence of Southeast Asia as a new frontier for the global berry industry.
The SE ASIA Meet Up combines a concise conference program with extended networking breaks and a business luncheon, ensuring valuable opportunities to connect with others and close deals.
Since places are limited to ensure a high-quality networking environment, early registration is recommended.
Program Activities
SE ASIA Meet Up offers numerous opportunities for attendees to connect with industry colleagues. Prior to the conference, the AFL Fresh Produce Golf Cup 2026, taking place on May 17, provides a relaxed setting for senior executives to network.
One of the highlights of the Meet Up program is the industry study tour, taking place on May 19. This tour offers participants an immersive, first-hand perspective on the fresh produce supply chain in Thailand. Confirmed visits include Talaad Thai, Southeast Asia’s largest wholesale market; Makro, a leader in the wholesale channel; and major retail chains Tops and Lotus’s. This carefully planned visit provides a comprehensive view of the journey of fresh produce, from wholesale distribution to store shelves, offering practical insights into operations and valuable market information.
Early bird registration fees expire on March 27.
Early bird trade visitor passes are available for two days only and include access to:
- The full conference program.
- All coffee breaks and networking lunches.
- Optional participation in the delegate tours on May 19.
- Exclusive networking opportunities with senior industry leaders.
To secure your place at the Asia Fruit Logistica SE ASIA Meet Up 2026, visit the official website and register today.
Asia Fruit Logistica
Is the leading international trade fair for the fresh produce industry in Asia. The 19th edition will be held from September 2-4, 2026, at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong. The event includes the Asiafruit Knowledge Hub, a content hub powered by Asiafruit magazine, and features the Asiafruit Congress, the Asiafruit Business Forum, and the Asiafruit Showcase.
Fruit Logistica
It is the world’s leading trade fair for the fresh produce sector, covering the entire supply chain from producer to consumer. Around 2,600 exhibitors from approximately 90 countries presented their products, services, and technical solutions at Fruit Logistica 2016. The event was attended by nearly 90,000 participants from 151 countries.
