Chearavanont Family (CP Group)
Overview
The Chearavanont family, of Teochew Chinese descent, controls Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group), Thailand's largest private conglomerate. Founded in 1921 by brothers Chia Ek Chor and Chia Seow Hui as a seed trading shop in Bangkok, the family built a global agribusiness empire that expanded into animal feed, poultry, and aquaculture. Under the leadership of Dhanin Chearavanont, the group diversified into telecommunications (True Corporation), retail (7-Eleven Thailand), and other sectors, becoming one of the most influential business dynasties in Southeast Asia. The family is known for its deep ties to China, having been one of the first major foreign investors in the country after its economic reforms.
Description
The Chearavanont family, of Teochew Chinese descent, controls Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group), Thailand's largest private conglomerate. Founded in 1921 by brothers Chia Ek Chor and Chia Seow Hui as a seed trading shop in Bangkok, the family built a global agribusiness empire that expanded into animal feed, poultry, and aquaculture. Under the leadership of Dhanin Chearavanont, the group diversified into telecommunications (True Corporation), retail (7-Eleven Thailand), and other sectors, becoming one of the most influential business dynasties in Southeast Asia. The family is known for its deep ties to China, having been one of the first major foreign investors in the country after its economic reforms.
Leadership
Governance
The fourth generation is actively involved, with Dhanin's sons—Soopakij, Suphachai, and Korawut—holding key executive roles. Suphachai Chearavanont serves as CEO of CP Group, while Soopakij chairs True Corporation. The family has a structured succession plan emphasizing professional management alongside family oversight.
Succession
The fourth generation is actively involved, with Dhanin's sons—Soopakij, Suphachai, and Korawut—holding key executive roles. Suphachai Chearavanont serves as CEO of CP Group, while Soopakij chairs True Corporation. The family has a structured succession plan emphasizing professional management alongside family oversight.
Public-Sector Context
The Chearavanonts maintain close relationships with Thai royalist and military elites, as well as with Chinese government officials. They have been key partners in Chinese state-led initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and have hosted Chinese leaders at CP headquarters.