Bangkok: Malaysia is intensifying its efforts to expand its franchise footprint in Thailand, with Perbadanan Nasional Bhd (Pernas) targeting potential sales of RM30 million through its participation in the Thailand Franchise and Business Opportunities (TFBO) 2026 exhibition. Pernas chairman Datuk Mohamed Rozhan Mohd Ghazalli, who is leading a delegation of Malaysian franchise brands at the exhibition, emphasized Thailand's significance as a strategic market for Malaysian franchisors seeking regional expansion. According to BERNAMA News Agency, participation in TFBO 2026 offers a vital platform for Malaysian companies to establish business partnerships, explore new market opportunities, and strengthen franchise collaboration between Malaysia and Thailand. Mohamed Rozhan expressed optimism about Malaysian brands successfully penetrating the Thai market, with participating companies eyeing a potential sales target of RM30 million from opportunities at TFBO. Mohamed Rozhan highlighted that the expansion into Th ailand could generate mutual benefits for both countries, encouraging investment, creating business opportunities, facilitating knowledge exchange, and contributing to economic growth. He also urged participating brands to gain market insights to support informed and sustainable expansion decisions. This initiative aligns with Malaysia's aspiration to become a leading franchise hub in ASEAN and to foster stronger economic ties with Thailand. TFBO 2026, held at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from June 4 to 7, features over 150 leading franchise brands from more than 10 countries and is expected to attract over 12,000 serious buyers, master franchisees, and investors. Earlier, Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah inaugurated the Malaysian Pavilion organized by Pernas at TFBO 2026, showcasing 10 Malaysian brands from sectors such as food and beverage, education, services, laundry, creative industries, and children's development services. Wan Zaidi noted t he participation of Malaysian exhibitors under Pernas reflects the growing strength, innovation, and international appeal of Malaysian franchise brands. He cited examples like LaundryBar, Secret Recipe, MR DIY, and ZUS Coffee, which demonstrate the potential of Malaysian franchises to succeed in Thailand, thereby highlighting the strong economic ties between the two nations. According to Pernas, the franchise industry contributed over RM46 billion to Malaysia's economy in 2025, with an average annual growth rate of about 15 per cent in recent years. Malaysia aims to achieve RM100 billion in franchise sales by 2030, requiring annual growth of approximately eight to 10 per cent.