Thailand Mulls Higher, Uniform Import Duty on Low-Value Goods to Boost Fair Competition

• The Customs Department is considering raising import duties on low-value goods and applying a single, uniform rate to promote fairer competition with domestic products.
• Current average import duty rates (about 10%) are seen as too low, leading to unfair competition since imported goods avoid corporate income tax paid by domestic businesses.
• Most low-value imports are ordered online by Thai consumers, with revenue largely going overseas.
• A uniform import duty rate (possibly 30% or higher) would simplify tax administration and create a more level playing field.
• Any changes to the tariff schedule must wait for a new government, but proposals are ready; recent measures already include VAT and import duties on goods valued under 1,500 baht.

Source: bangkokpost.com

Note that this post was (partially) written with the help of AI. It is always useful to review the original source material, and where needed to obtain (local) advice from a specialist.

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