Trade Registration Service
How to Apply for an Import / Export License in Thailand
We assist businesses in registering their import and export activities in Thailand so goods can be legally cleared through customs and traded internationally without delays or regulatory issues.
Introduction
Businesses that intend to import goods into Thailand or export goods from Thailand must obtain the appropriate registration and licensing from the Thai Customs Department and the Department of Foreign Trade. Import and export activities are regulated to ensure compliance with customs laws, trade regulations, and international trade agreements.
Most companies operating in international trade in Thailand are required to register for a Customs e-Customs system account, which allows them to legally submit customs declarations for importing or exporting goods. Depending on the type of goods involved, additional permits or licenses may also be required from specific government agencies.
Obtaining the proper import/export registration ensures that goods can be legally cleared through customs and traded internationally without delays or regulatory issues.
UnionSPACE Corporate Services assists businesses in registering their import/export activities, ensuring full compliance with Thai customs procedures and international trade regulations.
The Scope
Company eligibility assessment
We review the company’s corporate documents to confirm that the business is eligible to conduct import and export activities in Thailand before starting the registration process.
Registration with Thai Customs (e-Customs system)
We assist with the company’s registration with the Thai Customs Department so it can access the e-Customs system for declarations, shipment tracking, and electronic duty and tax payments.
Importer / Exporter registration
Once customs registration is complete, the company is recognized as an authorized Importer / Exporter and can legally process customs clearance for international shipments.
Compliance with product-specific regulations
We help identify whether additional permits or regulatory approvals are required for the specific goods being imported or exported, depending on the product category.
Company eligibility requirements
DBD registration
The business should generally be properly registered with the Department of Business Development in Thailand.
Valid tax identification number
A valid Thai tax identification number is typically required for customs and trade registration purposes.
Registered office address in Thailand
The company should maintain a registered business address in Thailand for regulatory and customs registration.
Business activity permitting trade
The company’s business objectives should allow trading, import, export, or international commercial activities.
Thai Customs e-Customs registration benefits
Submit import declarations
The e-Customs system allows the company to submit import declarations through the official customs platform.
Submit export declarations
The business can also submit export declarations for outbound shipments through Thai Customs.
Track shipments through customs
Registered users can monitor customs processing and shipment-related status through the system.
Pay duties and taxes electronically
The e-Customs system supports electronic payment of duties, taxes, and customs-related charges where applicable.
Products that may require additional permits or approvals
Food and beverages
Food-related products may require additional approvals from regulatory bodies before import or export.
Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
Health-related products are often subject to FDA or other regulatory control before customs clearance.
Medical devices
Medical products may require product registration, licensing, or other approvals before distribution or export.
Chemicals and hazardous materials
Certain chemicals and hazardous goods may be subject to specialized import or export controls and permit requirements.
Agricultural products
Agricultural goods may require phytosanitary, quarantine, or other sector-specific approvals.
Telecommunications equipment
Telecom-related items may require approval from the relevant technical or communications authority.
What we typically need from the client
Company affidavit and registration certificate
Corporate documents issued by the Department of Business Development confirming the company’s registration details.
Tax identification number
The company’s Thai tax identification number is typically required for customs registration.
Identification documents of directors
Identification documents of the company directors and authorized representatives handling the registration.
Passport copies of authorized representatives
If applicable, passport copies of foreign authorized representatives may be required as part of the filing.
Power of attorney
A power of attorney may be required to authorize the customs registration process or filing on behalf of the company.
Company and product information
Company address, contact details, and a description of the goods intended for import or export are usually required.
Additional documents may be required depending on the nature of the products being traded.
Deliverables
Thai Customs e-Customs registration
Successful registration with the Thai Customs e-Customs system for customs declaration processing.
Importer / Exporter authorization
Recognition of the company as an authorized importer and exporter for legal international trade activities.
Ability to legally conduct international trade
The company can lawfully import and export goods through Thai customs, subject to product-specific regulations.
Guidance on customs procedures and compliance
Practical guidance on customs processes, shipment documentation, and regulatory compliance obligations.
Ongoing Compliance
Accurate customs declarations
Businesses must file complete and accurate customs declarations for every import and export shipment.
Payment of duties and taxes
Applicable customs duties, taxes, and related fees must be paid in accordance with Thai regulations.
Proper shipping and customs documentation
Businesses should maintain proper supporting documentation for shipments, customs filings, and trade records.
Product-specific regulatory compliance
Goods subject to sector-specific controls must continue complying with licensing, permit, and inspection requirements.
Customs inspections when required
Companies must cooperate with customs inspections and any related regulatory reviews during import or export processing.
Failure to comply with customs regulations may result in fines, shipment delays, or legal penalties.