The Cabinet approved adjusting the import duty collection rules for goods brought in via E-Commerce according to customs tariff schedules, capped at 30%. The government is updating online trade regulations to create fair competition, support Thai SMEs, and protect consumers from harm caused by unfair trade practices.
On 10 Nov 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Akniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, said the government is driving the economy under the Reinvent Thailand strategy to restructure the economy and enhance national competitiveness. This includes improving public sector efficiency through the STI framework (Stabilize today, Transition now, Invest for tomorrow). This measure aligns with the Stabilize Today phase, focusing on fair competition for Thai businesses and updating trade rules to keep pace with changes in the digital economy.
Today, the Cabinet approved measures to adjust import duty collection rules for goods ordered through E-Commerce platforms from abroad, as proposed by the Ministry of Finance. The goal is to promote fair trade, boost the competitiveness of Thai businesses—especially SMEs—and strengthen consumer protection.
Currently, the rapid growth of E-Commerce allows foreign goods easy access to Thai consumers with intense price competition, while Thai businesses face costs such as taxes, employment, and compliance with laws and standards. This creates cost and competition imbalances. The government needs to adjust the rules fairly so domestic and foreign businesses compete under consistent regulations.
Besides promoting fair trade, the government prioritizes consumer protection because some low-priced imported goods sold online may not meet standards or pose safety risks—such as food and beverages, cosmetics and supplements, electronic devices, power banks, and automotive parts. Measures are needed to reduce incentives for importing cheap goods that lack responsible Thai business oversight on quality.
This measure is not aimed at blocking online trade or limiting consumer choices but rather updating tax systems and trade rules to reflect changes in the economy. The goal is to create a fair competitive environment, support Thai businesses, and promote quality growth of the digital economy.
The Customs Department Director-General said the measure will revise import duty collection rules for goods imported via express channels and international mail. Goods ordered through E-Commerce platforms will be charged duties according to the specified customs tariff, capped at 30%.
The process will utilize data from E-Commerce platforms to support accurate product declarations and duty collection, improving accuracy and efficiency in managing import data and aligning duty collection with current online trade practices.
To prepare, the Ministry of Finance and Customs Department will coordinate with E-Commerce platforms to develop systems and processes to ensure efficient implementation. The measures will take effect the day after publication in the Government Gazette.
The expected outcome is improved efficiency in import duty collection, fairer competition for domestic businesses—especially SMEs—and increased government revenue, according to Customs Department estimates.
The Customs Department will implement the rules, integrating cooperation with relevant agencies and E-Commerce platforms to ensure smooth, transparent, and effective enforcement, while considering impacts on consumers and all business sectors.