Importing high-quality goods from key markets like America, Europe, and the Middle East can give Thai businesses a competitive edge and help to meet the growing demand for foreign goods. This guide provides an overview of the import opportunities available as well as the essential steps to follow for success.
Importing from America: Tapping into high-tech and medical industries
Thailand is highly import-dependent for medical devices and advanced equipment. Did you know that in 2023, the value of U.S. exports of medical devices to Thailand reached more than USD 350 million?1 This highlights the growing demand for durable, high-tech tools used in areas like aesthetics, plastic surgery, orthopedics, and sports science.
The Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) between the U.S. and Thailand supports cooperation on trade and investment matters, making it easier for businesses to explore opportunities. For Thai companies, opening an import license and complying with Thai import duty requirements are essential first steps to importing from America successfully.
Importing from the EU: Sourcing premium goods
The EU has always been a strong source for premium products. Opportunities exist for importing high-quality coffee beans, advanced medical tools, and niche automotive parts that meet strict European standards. These imports benefit the food and beverage sector, luxury consumer markets, and the automotive industry.
In 2025, Thailand signed a Free Trade Agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), though it is not yet in force. Once ratified, which is expected by mid-2026, the agreement will reduce import tariff rates in Thailand, streamline customs processes, and boost trade flows. Until then, Thai businesses need to understand current import duties requirements and secure the right import permit for sensitive items such as food or cosmetics.
Importing from the Middle East: New markets and diverse goods
The Middle East, particularly the UAE, acts as a re-export hub for high-tech products and luxury goods. Thai businesses have opportunities to import automatic data processing machines, telecommunication equipment, refrigerators, and air conditioning parts. In addition, the region supplies luxury consumer items such as precious stones and jewelry, which can support Thailand’s high-end retail and e-commerce sectors.
Although no formal free trade agreements currently exist between Middle Eastern countries and Thailand, businesses can still tap into this market with the right import license and courier service providers. Leveraging an overseas courier service with customs expertise helps to reduce delays and ensure compliance with Thai import duty rules.
Importing from the Asia-Pacific region: Powering industry and innovation
The Asia-Pacific region remains a critical source of raw materials, intermediate goods, and high-tech components. In the first five months of 2025, Thailand imported USD 40.5 billion worth of goods from China, making it the country’s largest trading partner.2 Key imports include industrial machinery, iron and steel, plastics, and automotive parts. These goods support Thailand’s automotive, electronics, and manufacturing industries.
Regional trade agreements such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) eliminate or reduce import tax in Thailand for many goods. These agreements also help to streamline processes and encourage cost-effective sourcing, giving Thai businesses an advantage in global markets.
Key details for importing to Thailand
Importing into Thailand involves several regulatory steps. Tariff rates vary widely: while many goods benefit from reduced or zero import duty, others can face high tariffs that go up to 80%, particularly for automobiles, textiles, and certain agricultural products. All imports are subject to a 7% VAT. Businesses need to be familiar with the import tax and shipping duties payable, as well as who is responsible for paying import tariffs.
Import permits and licenses are mandatory for specific categories such as food, medical devices, cosmetics, and certain types of machinery. These must be obtained from relevant agencies, such as the Thai Food and Drug Administration. Businesses should maintain a shipping documents checklist to avoid delays, as incomplete paperwork is a common cause of penalties.
The DHL Express advantage: Your import partner
Navigating imports to Thailand requires more than just understanding regulations. Choosing the right logistics partner can reduce complexity, save costs, and help businesses scale with confidence. DHL Express provides international shipping services and an intercontinental air network that connects America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific to Thailand with speed and reliability.
With DHL tracked delivery and door-to-door solutions, businesses can rely on a courier service provider in Thailand that manages customs clearance and ensures timely delivery of goods. Importers benefit from Just-in-Time manufacturing support, reduced storage costs, and clear visibility across the supply chain.
Whether your goal is to import from the EU, America or the Middle East, DHL’s overseas courier service can help. Start your import export journey today by using our shipping cost calculator to get an estimate for your import or export costs with DHL Express today.
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