Norway’s Food Supplement Industry Takes Centre Stage at Vitafoods Asia 2025
The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Bangkok and the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce joined forces to showcase Norway’s world-leading food supplement industry at the recent Vitafoods Asia 2025 exhibition. Under the theme "Bridging Norwegian and Thai Food Supplement Communities," the programme aimed to create a powerful platform for Norwegian biotechnology innovators and Thailand’s expanding food supplements sector to connect, collaborate, and form partnerships in one of Asia’s fastest-growing health markets.
A Convergence of Opportunity
The demand for functional foods and food supplements has been rapidly increasing across Asia, driven by heightened consumer awareness of preventive healthcare and the benefits of natural, marine-based ingredients. Vitafoods Asia 2025 proved once again to be the region’s premier stage, attracting over 650 exhibitors and 13,000 global attendees from more than 38 countries.
Norway, with its pristine Arctic resources and science-driven biotech expertise, had an active presence at this year’s exhibition. Norwegian companies showcased their ability to set international benchmarks in purity, sustainability, and scientific rigor with the qualities that strongly appeal to Thai partners seeking reliable, science-backed solutions for a health-conscious consumer base.
H.E. Astrid Emilie Helle, Ambassador of Norway to Thailand
H.E. Astrid Emilie Helle, Ambassador of Norway to Thailand, highlighted the importance of this initiative: "Norwegian exhibitors at Vitafoods Asia 2025 go far beyond simply showcasing their products. They demonstrate Norway’s strong commitment to advancing wellness through science, sustainability, and innovation on a global scale." It was encouraging for the ambassador to see Thai investors, importers, distributors, and health entrepreneurs engaging with Norwegian companies not just as suppliers but as long-term partners.
Celebrating 120 Years of Diplomatic Relations
The year 2025 marks the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Norway and Thailand. This collaboration holds great promise, paving the way for continued growth, transparency, and mutual benefits underpinned by a shared commitment to sustainability.
Reflecting on the strong engagement at the networking reception, Ambassador Helle added: "The enthusiasm on both sides confirms that health innovation is truly global and that Thailand’s vibrant food supplements sector is ready to embrace high-quality, research-backed solutions. Norway, with its unique combination of natural resources and biotechnology expertise, is uniquely positioned to be a trusted partner on this long-term journey."
Axel Blom, President of the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce
Axel Blom, President of the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce, also highlighted the outcomes: "We are honoured to organise the networking reception as a platform to bridge the Norwegian and Thai food supplement communities. What we witness is not just general networking but the building of meaningful business bridges. Thai stakeholders express strong interest in Norwegian innovations, recognising the credibility that comes from products built on principles of scientific rigor and sustainability."
"Several discussions between Thai and Norwegian food supplement companies already indicate promising future partnerships and investments," Mr Blom added. "That is exactly the kind of momentum we hope to generate. For the chamber, our mission is to facilitate these intersections of innovation and market demand, and this year’s Vitafoods Asia shows how powerful that connection can be."
Norwegian Food Supplement Innovators at Vitafoods Asia 2025
The Norwegian delegation showcased the country’s excellence in food supplements, featuring innovations across krill oil, high-quality omega-3 concentrates, advanced delivery technologies, and consumer-ready health brands.
At the forefront stood Aker BioMarine Human Ingredients AS, the world’s leading krill oil supplier whose Superba Krill products set the benchmark for quality and sustainability. Backed by more than 50 clinical studies, these studies have consistently supported the positive health effects of krill oil across a range of health areas.
Complementary Innovations
Complementing the food supplements sector, Noromega presented its flagship product Superior-A Astaxanthin — formulated with high-purity astaxanthin, Pycnogenol®, glutathione, and essential vitamins for skin hydration, radiance, and firmness. Due to its expansion into ASEAN, Noromega warmly invited partners to explore opportunities in the fast-growing health supplement market.
Scientific depth was represented by Arctic Bioscience AS, which showcased its premium phospholipid omega-3 products derived from North Atlantic herring roe. Clinically tested and positioned to support brain health, sports performance, and healthy ageing, the company demonstrated how advanced research is transforming marine resources into targeted food supplement solutions.
Legacy of Excellence
Building on Norway’s long-standing marine oil heritage, Epax Norway AS, with a history dating back to 1838, underlined its reputation as a pioneer in condition-specific EPA/DHA ingredients. Today Epax continues to deliver Omega-3 products of unmatched purity and quality.
Alongside them, GC Rieber VivoMega AS is a world-leading supplier of premium Omega-3 concentrates from both marine and plant-based sources. With more than 100 years of industry experience, they produce EPA- and DHA-rich oils that meet the highest global quality standards — including GOED monograph compliance and IFOS certification.
Collaboration and Innovation
Together, these six Norwegian companies presented not as isolated businesses but as an ecosystem of innovation, each reinforcing the other and collectively positioning Norway as a strategic partner for Asia’s next wave of health and wellness demand.
The new connections established at Vitafoods Asia 2025 are paving the way for new trade and investment opportunities, highlighting how collaboration in the food supplements sector can contribute to the long-term economic growth of both Thailand and Norway.
Conclusion
The initiative set a new benchmark for bilateral engagement in the food supplements sector between Thailand and Norway. By combining a strong exhibition presence with a tailored networking platform, Norwegian companies deepened their foothold in Thailand’s health and wellness market while laying the groundwork for sustainable, long-term collaborations across Asia.
This collaboration not only strengthens the relationship between two nations but also underscores Norway’s commitment to advancing wellness through science, sustainability, and innovation on a global scale. As the demand for functional foods and food supplements continues to rise, this initiative serves as a powerful example of how international partnerships can drive growth, transparency, and mutual benefits in one of Asia’s fastest-growing health markets.