Billionaire Profile
Prayudh Mahagitsiri
Global Rank
#3230

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Prayudh Mahagitsiri

CEO, Coffee
THAILAND
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.116B
Estimated based on Coffee stock value as of April 21, 2026
-0.29% (24h)
Age
80
Source
Coffee, shipping
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
THAILAND

Biography

Prayudh Mahagitsiri, a prominent Thai billionaire, is a key figure in Thailand's business landscape, known for his diverse portfolio and strategic investments. With a net worth estimated at $2.6 billion as of May 2025, Prayudh's source of wealth stems from coffee and shipping ventures. His career spans over 50 years, marked by pioneering ventures in various sectors, including coffee production through Quality Coffee Products, a joint venture with Nestlé. He also has interests in steel, shipping, and property development. His achievements include establishing various companies under the PM Group umbrella, and a long-standing partnership with Nestlé for Nescafé production. Beyond business, Prayudh is known for his philanthropy and his support for Thai farmers.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/21/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Prayudh Mahagitsiri was born on December 1, 1945, in Bangkok, Thailand. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of San Diego in the United States.

Rise to Success

Mahagitsiri's journey to becoming a billionaire began with his entry into the coffee business, securing exclusive rights to distribute Nescafé in Thailand. This venture established Nescafé as a household name and positioned him as a key player in the Thai business community. Expanding beyond coffee, he diversified his investments into shipping, steel (POSCO-Thainox), and real estate.

Key Business Strategies

A pivotal strategy was the joint venture with Nestlé for Nescafé production through Quality Coffee Products Co. Ltd (QCP). He also invested in Thoresen Thai Agencies (TTA), a leading regional shipping company, and Thainox Stainless, Southeast Asia's largest stainless steel manufacturer. His ventures included real estate and the energy sector.

Philanthropy

Mahagitsiri is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting the construction of schools and hospitals, and providing scholarships for underprivileged students. He has also supported farmers in generating income through coffee cultivation and promoted longan cultivation for farmers.

Career Milestones

1990

Joint Venture with Nestle

Established Quality Coffee Products (QCP) with Nestlé, producing Nescafé in Thailand, becoming a leader in the instant coffee market.

2011

Investment in Thoresen Thai Agencies (TTA)

Acquired a significant stake in TTA, a shipping company, diversifying the family's wealth.

2010

Krispy Kreme Franchisee

Daughter, Ausanee, became a Krispy Kreme franchisee.

2024

Termination of Nestle Partnership

Nestlé ended its 34-year partnership with Prayudh's company, disrupting Nescafé production in Thailand.

2025

Jailed and Appeal

Sentenced to 24-year jail term for illegal land acquisition, and appealed the verdict.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)

$0.028B

Donated funds on behalf of the Prayudh-Suvimol Foundation for academic purposes.

Healthcare

Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University

$0.8B

Provided charitable donations to support the Faculty of Medicine.

Social Aid

COVID-19 Pandemic Assistance

$4M

Provided substantial financial assistance to society during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"When you have stake in a company it's your baby. You have to take more care of your baby. It's your blood in it."

Leadership Principles

Strategic Investment

Diversifying into multiple industries to ensure long-term financial success and stability.

Philanthropic Commitment

Supporting education and healthcare initiatives to give back to society.

Controversies & Challenges

2025

Land Grabbing Case

Sentenced to 24 years in prison for colluding with officials to obtain land deeds for the Mountain Creek Golf Resort.

2023

Krabi Land Grab

Sentenced to two years and eight months in prison for supporting the illegal issuance of land deeds.