Australia Shipping - Import Regulations

Import Regulations - Thailand

Thailand has for some years been an important and expanding market for Australian export of goods and services, but economic linkages have been hampered in the past by Thailand's trade restrictions and barriers.

The Thailand-Australia Free Trade Agreement (TAFTA), entered into force on 1 January 2005. The document ensures greater access for Australian products and improves prospects for services trade and investment.

In 2007 two-way merchandise trade was worth more than $12,3 billion (up from $6,8 billion in 2004). Australia's main exports to Thailand are aluminium, crude petroleum, coal, non-monetary gold and copper. Australian exporters should contact the Royal Thai Customs Department for information on quotas on goods imported to Thailand.

Product certification, labelling and packaging
Plants, animals and certain types of seeds require phytosanitary certificates issued by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry - Australia or the relevant state department of agriculture.

A veterinary health certificate signed by the official authority in Australia must accompany imports of meat.

Food products into Thailand must be registered with the Food and Drug Administration and
labelled in Thai displaying specific information.

Labels for alcoholic beverages must advise the percentage of alcohol content and health warning, printed in Thai, on the label or on a sticker.

Labelling must indicate in the Thai language:
• the name and type of the product;
• the name of manufacturer and address;
• directions for use;
• a statement of caution if irregular use may cause injury;
• net contents.
Packing should be secure and able to stand extreme heat and humidity and storage in the open.

Documentary requirements
Pro-forma invoice is required for establishment of letter of credit. It should include similar details to the commercial invoice.

Commercial invoice must include the following details:
• country of origin;
• complete description of goods;
• country or countries from which purchased and consigned;
• date of purchase and sale;
• selling price or value per unit (in currency of transaction);
• kinds of packages (crates, drums, bundles etc.);
• total number of packages and number containing identical goods;
• marks, numbers, gross and net weight of each package and total gross weight of consignment;
• any other charges, including export bonus or subsidy, discounts, packing, insurance, freight, commission, etc.

Bill of lading is required in 2 copies. It must indicate:
• a minimum of five copies is required;
• number of shipper;
• markings and numbers of packages;
• ultimate and any intermediate consignees;
• any other details specified by importer;
• certificate of insurance.

Packing list must accompany each invoice if goods are packed in more than one case.

Certificate is necessary if requested. It is required for Australian goods seeking preferential tariffs under the Thai Australian Free Trade Agreement.