BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai Customs Department is set to collect import duties on goods valued up to 1,500 baht, aiming to boost revenue by an estimated 3 billion baht annually and complement existing VAT collection on online products.
Customs Director-General Mr. Phanthong Loikulanun said the measure aligns with the government’s “Customs Quick Big Win” policy, which seeks to improve trade regulations, expedite tax refunds, and enhance business liquidity within four months. The initiative also addresses global concerns over Thailand being listed as a country associated with copyright violations, despite not producing counterfeit products.
As part of the reform, the department has canceled reward payments for executives at level C8 and above involved in seizure operations to prevent conflicts of interest, while maintaining rewards for the public who report illegal goods.
The proactive approach also targets illegal, counterfeit, and substandard goods through collaborations with major e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada, using modern technology to monitor imports. Import duties will be assessed from 1 baht upward and are expected to be implemented starting Jan 1, 2026. Duty assessment may apply flat rates of 20–30% depending on customs classifications.
Mr. Phanthong added that VAT on online imports has already been collected at 7% since 2024, covering over 200 million items valued around 30 billion baht, with China as the top source. The new duty collection will further support revenue while keeping pace with the rapid growth of e-commerce. (TNA)
