BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Department of Foreign Trade has urged Thai exporters to accelerate the implementation of supply chain traceability systems after the European Union published guidelines for its upcoming ban on products made with forced labor. The EU’s Forced Labor Regulation (FLR), which prohibits the sale, import, and export of goods linked to forced labor, will take full effect on Dec. 14, 2027. The regulation is expected to impact Thai exporters, particularly in the electrical and electronics sectors, which rely heavily on the European market. Arada Fuangtong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, said that because the EU is a key export market, Thai businesses must be able to provide evidence that their products and supply chains are free from forced labor to maintain the confidence of EU importers.
In 2025, the EU was Thailand’s fourth-largest trading partner, with total trade valued at approximately 1.7 trillion baht. Thai exports to the EU accounted for around 1 trillion baht, resulting in a trade surplus of about 300 billion baht. Electrical appliances and electronics made up the largest share of these exports. Arada advised operators to prepare documentation for European buyers and develop traceability and due diligence systems to ensure compliance at all stages of the supply chain, thereby reducing trade risks and maintaining competitiveness.
The FLR measure bans products involving forced labor, including forced child labor, at any stage of production. The European Commission recently released a guidance manual for government agencies, businesses, and civil society ahead of the full enforcement date.
The guidelines outline roles for all sectors, including state enforcement, corporate due diligence requirements, and mechanisms for civil society and victims to report suspected forced labor directly to EU member state authorities. Arada added that the department advises Thai businesses to closely monitor updates on the regulation and adjust their supply chain management to align with the new requirements before the Dec. 14, 2027 deadline to secure long-term market access. (TNA)
