BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced a regulatory reform aimed at strengthening the country’s health economy and supporting the sustainable growth of Thai herbal products. Effective 3 February 2026, a new Ministry of Public Health Notification on the Criteria, Methods, and Conditions for General Sale Herbal Products B.E. 2569 (2026) revises sales authorization rules based on product risk levels.
Under the updated framework, low-risk herbal health products and herbal cosmetics that have passed evidence-based safety assessments may now be sold through a wider range of retail channels, such as modern trade outlets, convenience stores, general retail shops, and online platforms. Previously, sales were limited to products listed under specific approved efficacy categories. The reform allows eligible products with newly recognized health properties to enter general sales channels, thereby reducing time-to-market and compliance costs for entrepreneurs.
According to Dr. Roongrutai Mualprasitporn, Deputy Secretary-General of the Thai FDA, the policy seeks to promote quality standards while ensuring consumer safety. The revised criteria are intended to improve public access to herbal products, expand business opportunities, and enhance the competitiveness of Thai enterprises in this sector. The FDA also confirmed that broader market access will be accompanied by continued post-market monitoring to ensure that all products meet established safety requirements.
Balancing business facilitation with consumer protection, this reform helps strengthen confidence in Thai herbal products and support their sustainable growth. By maintaining close post-market supervision and adherence to safety standards, the framework reinforces trust in product quality and contributes to a strong and credible presence for Thai herbal products in the global market.
