Thailand Export Document Requirements

Thailand Export Document Requirements | Bestar

Thailand Export Document Requirements

Exporting goods from Thailand involves several key steps and requires specific documentation to ensure compliance with Thai Customs regulations. Here's a detailed overview of the requirements:

Key Steps in Thailand's Export Procedure:

1. E-Customs System Registration:

   
   

   • Exporters must register with the online e-Customs system.

   • This often requires obtaining a "digital certificate" for electronic signatures to verify the sender's identity and document authenticity.

   • Registration can be done directly or through a customs broker.

   • Direct registration involves installing the e-Customs software, verifying digital certificates, registering with Thai Customs at designated divisions within a Customs office, and testing the system's message exchange capabilities. Upon successful testing, an e-Customs registration ID is issued.

   • A single registration is sufficient for businesses involved in both importing and exporting.

     
     

2. Review of Controlled Goods:

   
   

   • Exporters need to determine if their goods require an export permit. Approximately 50 categories of goods currently necessitate a permit. These can include items like trees, seeds, sugar, and rice (to ensure quality).

   • It's crucial to check the list of prohibited and restricted items as some goods cannot be exported or require special authorization from relevant government agencies (e.g., Fine Arts Department for antiques, Ministry of Interior for firearms, Food and Drug Administration for food and drugs).

     
     

3. Submission and Verification of Declaration:

   
   

   • An Export Declaration (Customs Form No. 101 or No. 101/1) must be submitted to the e-Customs system, either manually or electronically.

   • This submission should include an invoice and detailed cargo information.

   • The e-Customs system automatically validates the data. If no errors are found, a declaration and payment number are generated, and the shipment is classified as either "green line" (no physical inspection required) or "red line" (physical inspection and document checks necessary).

     
     

4. Payment of Duties and Taxes (if applicable):

   
   

   • Not all exported goods are subject to duties and taxes.

   • If applicable, payments can be made at the Customs Department of the port of exit, via the e-Payment system, or through designated banks.

     
     

5. Inspection and Release of Cargo:

   
   

   • For "red line" shipments, a physical inspection of the goods and a thorough document check are conducted by customs officials.

   • The freight forwarder is responsible for submitting a cargo control report to the e-Customs system.

   • The system generates a report, indicating whether the goods are "green line" or "red line."

   • Once the inspection is completed and all requirements are met, the cargo is released for export.

   • After the cargo has been exported, the shipping company or agent must submit the manifest information to the e-Customs system.

Required Export Documents:

The specific documents required may vary depending on the nature of the goods and the destination country. However, standard export documentation generally includes:

• Export Declaration: This is the primary document declaring the goods for export.

• Commercial Invoice: A bill for the goods being exported, detailing the price, quantity, and value. It serves as evidence of the transaction.

• Packing List: A detailed list of the contents of each package, including weights and dimensions.

• Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air freight): These documents serve as a receipt for the shipment and a contract of carriage.

• Export License (if required): For certain controlled goods, a specific export license from the relevant Thai authority is necessary.

• Certificate of Origin (if required): This document certifies the country of origin of the goods and may be required by the importing country or under Free Trade Agreements to qualify for preferential tariff rates. The Department of Foreign Trade is now the primary authority for issuing general Certificates of Origin for an initial list of monitored items destined for the US.

• Foreign Transaction Form (if the FOB value exceeds THB 500,000): This form provides details of the international transaction.

• Other Relevant Documents (if applicable): These can include:

  • Quality standards certificates

  • List of ingredients (for food products)

  • Health or safety certifications

  • Technical standards certificates

  • Authorization for a freight forwarder or broker to handle the shipment.

  • Evidence of price (e.g., purchase order).

  • Company registration (valid for 3 months) / Personal ID with signature.

  • Catalog (if any).

  • FDA approval (for certain food, drugs, and cosmetics).

  • Destination information.

It is highly recommended to engage a reputable freight forwarder or customs broker in Thailand to assist with the export process and ensure all documentation is correctly prepared and submitted. They can provide up-to-date information on specific requirements and navigate the complexities of Thai Customs regulations. You can also contact the Thai Customs Call Center at Tel. 1164 or the Customs Clinic at Tel. 02-667-7880-4 for further inquiries.

How Bestar can Help

How Bestar can help you:

• Bestar offers a wide range of corporate services, including:

  
  

  • Company Incorporation Services.   

  • Audit and Assurance.

  • Corporate Support Services (compliance management, etc.).

  • HR & Payroll Services.   

  • Tax Advisory & Compliance (including guidance on the Thailand Double Tax Agreement).   

  • Business Advisory Services.

  • Corporate Secretaryship.

• How we can help:

  
  

  • Understanding the Thailand DTA: We can provide expert advice on how the Thailand Double Tax Agreement applies to your specific situation, helping you minimize tax liabilities and ensure compliance.   

  • Thailand Cross-border transactions: If you are involved in business activities between Singapore and (e.g., investments, licensing), we can offer guidance on the tax implications.   

  • Company Incorporation in Thailand: If you are looking to set up a holding company or a regional office to manage your Thailand operations, we can assist with the incorporation process.   

  • Tax Planning and Compliance: They can help with tax planning strategies that consider Thai tax laws and ensure accurate reporting.

    
    

To get a more precise answer on how Bestar can help you, please clarify the specific area of assistance you require. If you have more details about the services you are looking for, we can try to provide a more targeted response.

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