Thai Customs Department Eases Certificate of Origin Submission Requirements

In light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai Customs Department introduced Notification No. 81/2563 on April 16, 2020. This directive aims to streamline import processes during the pandemic, replacing and enhancing the previously issued Notification No. 47/2563 from March 2020.

Key Features:

• Certificates of Origin: Importers can initially submit photocopies of certificates of origin instead of the originals to be eligible for reduced customs duties or exemptions. However, the original must be provided within 30 days of customs releasing their goods.

• Extended Applicability: Unlike its predecessor, this new notification permits the use of such photocopies for a broader range of customs and duty exemptions, considering the prolonged and uncertain nature of the pandemic.

• Timeframe: The changes are valid between April 16 and September 30, 2020.

• Trade Agreements Covered: The notification includes multiple free trade and related agreements, such as the ASEAN-China Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement, Thailand-India Free Trade Agreement, among others.

• Submission Guidelines: Importers should attach a note with the imports stating their intention to provide the original certificate later. They must also send a filled-out form from the notification along with the certificate copy to customs. Customs officers will review each certificate and, once satisfied, will release the goods, with the stipulation of receiving the original within 30 days.

• Extensions: If pandemic-related delays persist, an additional 30-day extension can be obtained by applying a minimum of seven days before the original deadline.

• Compliance: A summary of all deadlines should be submitted by the importer within 60 days of retrieving items from customs. If importers fail to provide the original certificate within the stipulated timeframe or support their duty reduction requests, they risk being in default and might incur additional liabilities. If a certificate's validity lapses before its submission, any customs duty reductions or exemptions become void.

Given the unprecedented strains on importers and the Thai Customs Department, Notification No. 81/2563 offers a reprieve. However, it's crucial for importers to remain vigilant and adhere to all requirements to avoid potential complications and additional costs.