Bangkok: Thailand has ramped up its efforts to combat illegal imports and dismantle nominee networks through a coordinated initiative involving 21 government agencies. The move aims to tighten inspections of imported goods, regulate online platforms, and conduct thorough investigations into nominee structures, ensuring a fair trade environment and consumer safety.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, who chairs the Committee for Managing and Resolving Issues of Illegal Foreign Goods and Businesses (CMC), led the committee’s inaugural meeting. This meeting was attended by Commerce Minister Supajee Suthamphan and representatives from multiple government agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Public Health, and the Royal Thai Police, among others.
Mr. Ekniti emphasized the urgent need for agency collaboration to address substandard goods and deter foreign businesses using nominees. The initiative includes increasing the Full Container Load (FCL) inspection rate, implementing 100% X-ray inspections at high-risk border crossings, and prosecuting offenders. Starting January 1, 2026, the Customs Department will levy import duties and VAT on goods valued at 1 baht or more, promoting fair competition for Thai businesses and SMEs.
The crackdown on nominee businesses continues with 873 offenders prosecuted, and preparations are underway for the Anti-Money Laundering Office to investigate high-risk financial transactions. The police and the Department of Special Investigation are set to collaborate systematically on these prosecutions.
In regulating online platforms, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) mandates e-commerce platforms to disclose seller and product information and implement a notice and takedown system by December 31, 2025. This initiative seeks to enhance online product security and establish fair competition in the Thai online market.
Efforts are also being made to verify product origin, preventing fraudulent claims and maintaining the reputation of Thai products globally. The meeting additionally approved guidelines under the National Economic and Social Development Council, including drafting regulations, appointing subcommittees, and supporting financial investigations to prevent foreigners from using Thai proxies to conceal their identities.