Date of issue: 29 November 2017
Date of effect: Immediate
Reference Number: MAA 2017-09
Attention:
- Industries—Seafood
- Export establishments approved to export seafood to Thailand
- Seafood Export Consultative Committee
- Seafood Trade Advisory Group
- Department of Agriculture and Water Resources—Central and Regional offices
Purpose
To notify manufacturers/exporters that the Customs Department of Thailand have implemented a new Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017) effective 13 November 2017, which replaces the Customs Act B.E. 2469 (1926).
Section 59 of the new Act specifies that packages or containers of goods imported into or exported out of Thailand must display external shipping marks or numbers [indicating the number of packages].
The requirement for shipping marks on packages and containers is not a new requirement. The shipping marks or numbers are required to be accurately depicted on all documents relating to the goods; and are a requirement for all commodities.
Section 211 Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017) specifies a statutory maximum penalty of THB 50,000 for non-compliance with shipping mark requirements.
Action required
It is recommended that exporters work with their importers to check the relevant sub-regulations and guidelines regarding shipping mark requirements.
The guidelines have been issued on shipping mark requirements (as issued under the previous Customs Act B.E. 2469 (1926). Information presently available indicates these guidelines will continue to apply under the new Customs Act.
The guidelines provide details of the way in which shipping marks should be declared on documentation, and outline types of consignments that are exempted from shipping mark requirements.
The department is seeking confirmation from the Thailand Customs Department that the guidelines on shipping mark requirements still apply, and advice regarding any further implications for exporters under the new Customs Act, possible product exemptions and the implications of any changes for exporters. An updated Market Access Advice will be issued should further information be provided.
Exporters experiencing problems with clearance of consignments occurring as a result of implementation of the new legislation are encouraged to notify the department via email to Exports.
Further information
Contact Exports if you have any queries.
The Manual of Importing Country Requirements (MICoR) will be updated to reflect the changes.
The information provided in this advice is current at the time of writing and is intended for use as guidance only and should not be taken as definitive or exhaustive. The Commonwealth endeavours to keep information current and accurate, however, it may be subject to change without notice. Exporters are encouraged to verify these details with their importers prior to undertaking production/exports. The Commonwealth will not accept liability for any loss resulting from reliance on information contained in this notice.