Thai Customs has introduced tougher fines for cannabis smuggling and export fraud in a bid to protect the country’s international trade reputation.
PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s Customs Department has announced tougher penalties for cannabis smuggling and fraudulent export origin claims as part of a broader effort to protect the country’s international reputation and strengthen confidence among global trading partners. Customs Director-General Panthong Loykulnunt said the measures are being implemented under government policy to intensify efforts against illegal imports and exports, with particular focus on the growing problem of cannabis smuggling and the misrepresentation of goods as Thai-made products for export.
According to the department, authorities recorded 2,983 cannabis smuggling cases between October 2025 and May 2026, seizing a total of 35,011 kilograms of cannabis with an estimated value exceeding 445 million baht. Officials said the number of cases has continued to rise. Previously, offenders caught attempting to smuggle cannabis abroad often faced confiscation of the products, which were forfeited to the state. Customs officials said this was not always an effective deterrent, as the high value of cannabis in destination countries meant some smugglers viewed the risks as acceptable compared to potential profits. To address the issue, the department has introduced stricter penalties effective June 17. Offenders will now face fines of 30,000 baht per kilogram of cannabis seized, in addition to forfeiture of the confiscated products.
Authorities said the tougher measures are intended to discourage illegal exports and prevent Thailand from being used as a collection and transit point for cannabis shipments destined for countries where the substance remains illegal and carries severe penalties. In a separate move, Customs has also increased penalties for businesses that falsely declare the origin of exported goods or improperly claim Thai origin to obtain trade benefits. Under the new rules, offenders will face fines of 500,000 baht and suspension of all customs-related privileges and benefits. Officials warned that fraudulent origin declarations could seriously damage Thailand’s credibility in international trade and potentially trigger trade disputes, retaliatory measures, or stricter inspections by foreign governments.
The department noted that many countries have become increasingly vigilant about verifying product origins amid ongoing global trade tensions and evolving tariff policies. False origin claims not only violate customs regulations but can also harm legitimate Thai exporters by undermining trust in Thai products. Panthong said the revised penalties reflect the Customs Department’s commitment to combating customs violations, maintaining international trade standards, protecting honest businesses, and strengthening confidence in Thailand’s export sector. He added that the measures are designed to support sustainable economic growth while preserving Thailand’s reputation in global markets. (TNA)
