VNU Asia Pacific and Assumption University’s School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation Unite to Shape the Future of Thailand’s Food Industry
Bangkok, Thailand (25 May 2026), VNU ASIA PACIFIC and the Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation, Assumption University of Thailand (FBI ABAC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formalises a shared mission: to elevate Thailand’s position as a global hub for food innovation, and to cultivate the talent and ideas that will drive it forward.
The partnership ties FBI ABAC’s academic leadership and research excellence directly into Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL — VNU ASIA PACIFIC’s flagship platform for biotechnology and health technology, held annually at BITEC, Bangkok. Together, the two organisations will embed the Future Food Innovation Junior Competition 2026 as a signature feature of the 2026 exhibition, creating a compelling stage where tomorrow’s food innovators meet today’s industry.
A Shared Vision for Thailand’s Food Future
Thailand’s food industry stands at an inflection point — the opportunity ahead lies in moving up the value chain, from commodity production to high-value, innovation-driven products. FBI ABAC brings deep expertise in food science, biotechnology, and industry collaboration; VNU Asia Pacific brings the reach of one of Asia Pacific’s premier exhibition platforms. Together, their partnership creates a direct bridge between academic innovation and industry opportunity.
Bringing Innovation to Life at Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL 2026
At the heart of this collaboration is a shared commitment to making Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL 2026 a catalyst for Thailand’s future food ecosystem. The Future Food Innovation Junior Competition — organised and managed by FBI ABAC — will take centre stage on September 3, 2026 at Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL 2026 at BITEC, Bangkok. The event will bring energy, fresh thinking, and public attention to the intersection of food science and innovation.
Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL has always been about more than an exhibition — it is about building an ecosystem. Our partnership with FBI ABAC is a natural expression of that purpose. By bringing future food innovation into the heart of our show, we are connecting the brightest young minds in Thailand directly with the industry leaders, researchers, and investors who can help turn their ideas into reality.”
— Mrs. Rujiras Chatchalermkit, General Manager, VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific
“This MOU reflects our conviction that innovation must be cultivated early and connected widely. Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL gives our students and researchers a world-class platform to demonstrate what Thailand’s food future can look like. We are proud to stand alongside VNU ASIA PACIFIC in making that vision tangible — and in showing the world that the next great food innovations will come from Thailand.”
— Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka, f.s.g., Ph.D., President, Assumption University of Thailand
Building a Long-Term Partnership
The MOU signed on May 25, 2026 is designed as a foundation for a lasting relationship. Both parties have committed to exploring expanding areas of cooperation beyond the immediate competition — including joint promotional activities, stakeholder engagement across academic institutions and industry partners, and a continued presence at future editions of Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL. All four prize-winning teams from the 2026 competition will also advance to the international stage at ICSAF Food Innovation 2026, further amplifying Thailand’s voice in the global food innovation community.
Participation in the Future Food Innovation Junior Competition 2026 is free of charge and open to upper secondary school students. Applications and qualifying video submissions are accepted through August 1, 2026. The grand final will take place at Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL 2026 on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at BITEC, Bangkok.
About Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL 2026
Bio+ HealthTech INTERNATIONAL is Thailand’s premier exhibition for biotechnology, health technology, and life sciences, co-located with Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL and Future CHEM International. Organised by VNU Asia Pacific, it connects regional and global leaders across science, research, and industry. The 2026 edition is held at BITEC, Bangkok from 2-4 September 2026.
Media Enquiries
VNU Asia Pacific
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Thanita Sumranjit, Assistant MarCom Manager
Email: thanita@vnuasiapacific.com
Tel: +66 (0) 2 111 6611 Ext. 333