Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Toshihiro Nikai on Monday offered to boost Japan's support for the promotion of the food industry and energy-saving efforts in Thailand.
He made the proposal during a meeting with Thai Trade Representative Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, a ministry official said.
With the two countries set to conclude a bilateral free-trade agreement, Nikai told Parnpree that Japan is ready to lend a hand in Thailand's "Kitchen of the World" project, aimed at promoting Thai cuisine worldwide, the official said.
Parnpree hopes Thailand can develop alternative energy sources with Japan's help, the official said.
Japan and Thailand, which reached a basic FTA accord in September, are finalizing the text of the agreement.