The Thai Pesticides Alert Network and the Foundation for Consumers recently reported that green Shine Muscat grapes imported from China were discovered to be contaminated with harmful chemicals. This revelation sparked concerns regarding the influx of low-cost imported goods into Thailand, especially through foreign e-commerce platforms, which could potentially harm consumers and local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
In response to this issue, the Commerce Ministry has developed a comprehensive plan to address the entry of substandard products from abroad. Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang revealed that a subcommittee has been formed to support Thai SMEs and crack down on poor-quality foreign goods. The subcommittee recently met with representatives from 20 government agencies to discuss measures to tackle this challenge, focusing on agricultural, consumer, and industrial goods.
To ensure the safety and quality of agricultural products, the ministry plans to conduct thorough checks on origin and pesticide residue. Similarly, consumer goods, particularly those sold through online e-commerce platforms like Temu and Lazada, will undergo inspections to guarantee safety standards. Foreign e-commerce operators will also be required to establish registered offices in Thailand in compliance with the digital platform service law.
In addition, the Customs Department intends to permit the importation of industrial goods that meet the standards set by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute. The short-term plans outlined by the ministry are expected to be finalized by the end of the year. Looking ahead, the ministry aims to enhance the competitiveness of Thai products both domestically and internationally by 2025 and create sustainability for Thai goods by amending relevant laws to facilitate trade, effective from October 2025.
Furthermore, there is a push to increase the GDP contribution from SMEs from 35.2% to 40% by 2027. To achieve this goal, various agencies under the subcommittee are planning to support SMEs through training, funding, online marketplace sales, and participation in international exhibitions and trade shows. The subcommittee will have the authority to propose urgent policies and measures to address the distribution of substandard goods from abroad in collaboration with public and private sectors.
Overall, the Commerce Ministry’s plan includes stringent enforcement of laws, amendments to trade-related regulations, tax measures, SME support, and enhanced cooperation with trading partners. By implementing these measures, Thailand aims to safeguard consumers, protect local businesses, and promote the growth of the domestic economy.
