Thailand Tightens Import Rules for Personal & Non-Commercial Shipments in 2025

In 2025, Thailand tightened its import licence rules, introducing new requirements for certain types of shipments.

These changes affect Australian small businesses, e-commerce sellers, and exporters sending food, cosmetics, medical devices, or non-commercial industrial goods to Thailand.

Goods that previously cleared customs smoothly may now face delays, rejection, or higher costs. Staying compliant is the only way to keep shipments moving without disruption.

Thailand’s New Import Licence Rules for 2025

Thailand now requires import licences for many personal-use and non-commercial goods.

• FDA (Food and Drug Administration): Covers food, dietary supplements, cosmetics, hygiene products, and medical devices.
• TISI (Thai Industrial Standards Institute): Oversees non-commercial industrial goods such as toys, household appliances, helmets, wiring, and plastic containers.

Shipments missing the correct licence may face costly delays, additional fees, or outright rejection at customs.

Australian exporters, e-commerce sellers, and manufacturers need to confirm paperwork is in order before dispatching goods to Thailand.

Couriers & Freight helps Australian shippers navigate these new rules by advising on licence applications, preparing documentation, and communicating with Thai authorities.

Partnering with an experienced logistics provider can give businesses a smoother customs clearance, reduce risks, and keep shipments on schedule.

Ship to Thailand Without Delays

Stay compliant with Thailand’s new import licence rules. Get expert support from Couriers & Freight to keep your shipments moving.

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Why Thailand Introduced These Requirements

Thailand tightened its import rules in response to the expansion of e-commerce and rising consumer protection concerns. With more personal and small-scale shipments entering the country, the government has increased oversight to ensure product safety and quality.

Why the changes matter:

• Protecting Thai Consumers: The Thai government aims to safeguard consumers from substandard or unsafe products entering the market through online channels.
• Regulating E-Commerce Growth: With e-commerce transactions projected to reach USD 34 billion by 2025, the government is implementing measures to manage the influx of goods and ensure compliance with national standards.
• Aligning with International Trade Norms: By enforcing stricter import controls, Thailand aims to align with global trade practices and ensure imported goods meet recognised international safety and quality standards.

For Australian exporters and e-commerce businesses, these measures mean closer checks on compliance before goods leave the warehouse.

What Goods Are Affected by the Import Licence Rules?

1. Food, Cosmetics & Medical Devices (FDA)

These products require FDA approval before import. Examples include:

• Skincare and cosmetic products like moisturisers, sunscreens, makeup, hair dyes, and fragrances
• Dietary supplements, protein powders, herbal extracts, vitamins
• Over-the-counter medical devices such as thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and first-aid kits
• Hygiene products, toothpaste, mouthwash, and personal care wipes

Non-Commercial Industrial Goods (TISI)

TISI regulates consumer and household goods requiring safety oversight. Examples include:

• Children’s toys and play equipment
• Electrical appliances like blenders, kettles, irons, and microwaves
• Wiring, cables, and electrical extension leads
• Protective helmets for motorcycles, bicycles, and industrial use
• Plastic food containers and packaging materials
• Household items, ladders, glassware, storage boxes

Exporters should verify the correct product classification before dispatch to avoid customs clearance issues. 

Couriers & Freight advises businesses to confirm product classifications early to avoid shipment holds.

How to Obtain Import Licences in Thailand

Complying with Thailand’s new import licence rules requires following processes managed by either the Thai FDA or TISI. Importers can apply directly or appoint an agent or logistics provider to handle the paperwork.

Estimated Processing Times:

• FDA licences typically take 5-10 business days for standard products.
• TISI licences usually take 7-14 business days, depending on product type and documents

How to apply for an FDA licence:

1. Register online through the Thai FDA e-submission portal.
2. Prepare product details, including safety certificates, labels, and packaging information.
3. Upload supporting documents such as certificates of analysis, ingredient lists, and test results.
4. Submit and track progress online.
5. Wait for FDA review and approval before arranging shipment. Goods cannot be cleared without this licence.

How to apply for a TISI licence:

1. Access the Thai National Single Window (NSW) platform to initiate the application process.
2. Register importer details and provide product-specific information.
3. Submit technical documentation, including test reports, compliance certificates, and product safety data.
4. Submit and monitor status online.
5. Obtain TISI approval before shipping.

Accurate and complete paperwork is essential. Incomplete applications often cause delays. Many shippers work with Couriers & Freight for help preparing documents and managing the process with Thai authorities.

What Happens if You Don’t Comply?

Non-compliance with Thailand’s import licence rules can quickly lead to costly customs problems. Shipments without approval risk being stopped, refused entry, or abandoned, all of which create delays and extra charges for shippers.

Common consequences include:

• Shipments held until the correct licence is provided
• Goods returned, abandoned, or destroyed
• Daily storage fees at customs warehouses
• Disposal and handling charges
• Customs fines, especially for repeat violations
• Damage to reputation if buyers face delays

These penalties can easily exceed the value of the shipment itself. For Australian exporters and e-commerce sellers, securing the right licence before dispatch is far cheaper and less disruptive than fixing problems once goods arrive in Thailand.

Stay Compliant When Shipping to Thailand

Shipping to Thailand under the new rules can feel complex and overwhelming.

Couriers & Freight helps businesses and individuals by clarifying licence requirements and advising whether goods fall under FDA or TISI control.

Our team draws on international freight and customs expertise to guide customers through applications and documentation. By identifying risks early and ensuring clear communication, we help keep shipments moving smoothly and give exporters confidence that their goods will arrive without delays.

Learn more about our international freight services and how we can support your shipments to Thailand.

Ship to Thailand Without Delays

Stay compliant with Thailand’s new import licence rules. Get expert support from Couriers & Freight to keep your shipments moving.

Get a Quote Now