Importing goods into Thailand involves two main steps: registering as an importer and obtaining specific licenses for the goods.
- Registering as an Importer
- Businesses must register as an importer/exporter with the Customs Department via the Customs Trader Portal. Alternatively, Bizcon Logistics Co., Ltd. can assist with the registration process.
- Required documents include the English company name registered with the Department of Business Development and the original ID card or passport of the authorized signatory.
- Once approved, the registration remains valid for 1 year from the date of authorization.
- Applying for Specific Import Licenses
- Some types of goods require prior approval from relevant government agencies, for example:
- Food, Cosmetics: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Medicines, Pharmaceutical Chemicals: Department of Foreign Trade and FDA
- Live Animals and Animal Carcasses: Department of Livestock Development
- Used Cars, Used Engines: Department of Foreign Trade
- Radio Communication Equipment: National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)
- Fertilizers, Controlled Seeds: Department of Agriculture
- Importers must submit applications directly to the responsible agency via the e-Submission system or other designated online platforms.
- Supporting documents may include:
- A letter explaining the purpose of import
- Product labels
- Commercial invoice
- Other relevant documents as required by the agency
- Customs Clearance
- Once the specific license has been approved, all relevant documents must be submitted to the Customs Department to proceed with clearance.
- Importers must file an import declaration form together with excise tax and VAT documents.
- Customs officials will review the documents, assess import duties and taxes, and release the goods accordingly.
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