Category: Trade Radar

If you already produce or export MDF to Iran, or are looking at this market, the signals that emerged in early July 2026 are very interesting. They show real company names, actual order values, and people ready to discuss deals. But before you get excited about the numbers, I want you to read the problematic part first, because it's far more important than the sales figures.

Before quoting export prices during periods of volatile MDF exports to Iran, businesses should thoroughly check shipping costs, alternative routes, and final destination charges. Guidelines for cost estimation can be found at [link/reference]. Check international shipping costs. Then compare it to the importer's payment terms.

A clearer-than-usual buy signal from Iran.

OJA WOOD MOEIN, a company based in Isfahan, is a major importer and distributor of MDF boards in Iran, with over 40 years of experience. Currently, they import MDF from seven Thai manufacturers through their Dubai branch, with an average annual value of US$20-25 million, and this is expected to increase to US$23 million in the future. This isn't a "cold lead," but rather a partnership with existing, established customers.

Another company, Pars Rubber Products, a rubber parts manufacturer with over 70 years of experience, is interested in importing STR20 rubber blocks from Thailand. They anticipate an order value of approximately US$120 million, a very large figure for a single market. Currently, the company imports around 70,000 tons of rubber blocks annually from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, and has previously purchased limited quantities from Thailand.

What sets this signal apart from typical news is that it includes a real company name, real figures, and direct discussions with the Thai Trade Promotion Office in Tehran. This means that if the regional situation allows for normal transportation, negotiations can proceed immediately without starting from scratch.

The real problem that's keeping the deal stalled.

Both companies agreed on the same point: the Strait of Hormuz, during periods of unrest in the Middle East, disrupts maritime transport through the strait, and alternative routes through Pakistan and Turkey are significantly more costly, making Thai products uncompetitive against regional competitors.

For Pars Rubber Products, the problem is even more apparent. Although Thailand's STR20 rubber blocks are of high quality, their price is already higher than competitors like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Adding in the increased transportation costs due to detours widens the price gap even further. Currently, the company is relying on its limited remaining stock and waiting for the situation to improve before resuming negotiations.

Here's what you need to understand before submitting any quote to an Iranian buyer: The landed cost at the buyer's location doesn't depend solely on your FOB price, but also on which shipping routes are available and the current freight rates.

Exporting MDF wood to Iran: Things to check before responding to a quote.

If you are a manufacturer or exporter of MDF boards and considering the Iranian market, there are several things to check before sending a price list to buyers. If you quote prices without knowing the actual shipping costs, you might secure an order but end up losing money during the actual delivery process.

• Check the status of the Strait of Hormuz. Check whether the regular shipping route is open before calculating the freight charge.
• Request freight rates from the shipping line. For the Persian Gulf route, and in comparison to the longer route through Türkiye or Pakistan.
• Calculate the actual landed cost. Includes freight charges, insurance, port fees at destination, and Iranian import taxes.
• Check the payment terms. Because Iran has limitations in its international banking system, a letter of credit (LC) from an Iranian bank may not be accepted in Thailand.
• Confirm the product standards that the buyer requires. For example, the thickness, density, and formaldehyde emission standards set by Iran.
• Check the status of sanctions. This relates to trading with Iran, especially if you use banks or shipping lines that operate under US or EU law.
• Ask the buyer if they are using routing through Dubai. Because OJA WOOD MOEIN uses a subsidiary in Dubai as an intermediary, the delivery terms may change.

Transportation costs vary depending on the route.

Typically, shipping MDF from Thailand to Iran takes the sea route through the Strait of Malacca, across the Indian Ocean, and into the Persian Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz. The estimated transit time is 18–25 days, depending on the shipping line and destination port. Normal freight rates for a 40-foot container are around US$1,500–2,500, but this figure can vary significantly during periods of uncertainty.

If you have to detour through Turkey using land or multimodal routes, costs can increase by 2–3 times, and transit times extend to 35–50 days. This directly impacts your working capital because goods are stuck in transit for longer, even though you've already paid for production and raw materials.

For routes through Pakistan, there is added complexity in documentation and border crossing procedures, as it requires both maritime and land transport documents, as well as transit through Pakistani customs, which increases the risk of unpredictable delays and costs.

The STR20 rubber block presents a price challenge that must be acknowledged.

For exporters of STR20 rubber blocks, the challenges are more complex than with MDF because, in addition to transportation routes, there's the issue of price competition from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Pars Rubber Products stated that they have previously purchased Thai rubber in limited quantities and know of its good quality, but the price is higher than competitors in the region.

If you are an exporter of rubber sheets, the first thing to consider before entering this market is your price competitiveness. And if you can't compete on price, can you truly position yourself as a premium supplier? This is because Iranian buyers are well-aware of market prices and have many options.

The $120 million figure projected by Pars Rubber is very large, but that figure represents the company's total demand for rubber from all sources, not the total amount to be purchased from Thailand. Therefore, assessing Thailand's actual market share requires considering both price competitiveness and transportation costs combined.

Documents and procedures required for the Iranian market.

Exporting to Iran is more complex in terms of documentation than to typical markets, due to both Iranian specific requirements and restrictions from the international financial system. You should have the following documents ready before beginning negotiations.

• Certificate of Origin (Form A or GSTP) Thailand and Iran have a cooperation framework under the GSTP, which may grant some tariff reductions. You should check with the Department of International Trade to see if your goods are on the list.
• Phytosanitary Certificate For MDF containing natural wood components, Iran may require phytosanitary certification.
• Formaldehyde Emission Test Report For MDF boards, test results from an accredited laboratory are required, as Iran has specific standards in this area.
• Packing List and Commercial Invoice The product specifications are complete, including the correct HS Code.
• Bill of Lading or Multimodal Transport Document It depends on the actual route taken.
• Company certification documents Because OJA Wood Moein recommended that the Thai Trade Center help verify the credibility of Thai businesses, it means that Iranian buyers place importance on checking the background of suppliers.

Regarding payment matters, we need to discuss it with the bank first.

This is a part many overlook and later regret: Iran has been cut off from the SWIFT system. This means that regular Letters of Credit (LCs) issued by Iranian banks cannot be directly confirmed through Thai banks. Therefore, most payments must go through intermediaries in third countries such as Dubai, Turkey, or China.

OJA WOOD MOEIN already uses a branch in Dubai as an intermediary, which practically simplifies payments. However, you need to check with your bank about any restrictions or compliance procedures for accepting payments from a Dubai-based company representing Iranian buyers, as each bank has different policies.

If you have never exported to Iran before, it is recommended to discuss this with your freight forwarder and bank before accepting any quotes, as payment arrangements in this market are complex and require advance planning.

The competition includes participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Both companies in Isfahan already import goods from their Thai competitors. OJA WOOD MOEIN imports MDF from Russia, China, and Indonesia, while Pars Rubber Products imports rubber blocks from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. This means that buyers have options and are well-aware of market prices.

For MDF, Thailand has an advantage in terms of quality and established relationships, as OJA WOOD MOEIN already purchases from seven Thai manufacturers. However, if transportation costs increase due to detours, this advantage may diminish. Therefore, maintaining relationships with buyers during market disruptions is more important than waiting for things to return to normal before reconnecting.

For STR20 rubber, the price gap between Thailand and its competitors is a pre-existing problem, not something new stemming from the situation in the Middle East. Therefore, even if the situation improves, the price issue will persist. You need a clear strategy on how to compete.

Signals to watch for before deciding to move forward.

The Iranian market is currently in a “wait and see” state. Both sides have stated they are ready to resume negotiations when the situation improves, but what does “improvement” mean, and how will you know when that time is?

The following should be monitored: First, the status of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which can be tracked via Marine Traffic or Lloyd's List news. Second, freight rates on the Persian Gulf route; if rates return to near-normal levels, it signals that the route is open. Third, news from the Thai Trade Center in Tehran regarding potential new business matching events when circumstances permit.

If you are an MDF manufacturer that has never exported to Iran before, preparing now during this market downturn is ideal. This allows you time to prepare documentation, study standards, and research shipping routes without rushing into decisions.

The hidden costs of the initial export to Iran.

In addition to fluctuating freight rates, there are other costs you must include in your landed cost calculation. Because if you quote an FOB price and the buyer's landed cost is higher than your competitor's, the deal is closed.

• Cargo insurance costs For routes passing through high-risk areas, insurance premiums may be 2–5 times higher than normal.
• Port handling fees at the destination port. Port fees in the Persian Gulf vary. It's advisable to check with an experienced freight forwarder specializing in this route.
• Demurrage value If there are problems with the documentation or the customs inspection at the destination takes a long time, the demurrage fee can accumulate very quickly.
• Document translation fees Iran uses the Farsi language, so some documents may need to be translated and certified.
• LC Confirmation value If using an LC through an intermediary bank, the confirmation fee may be higher than a regular LC.
• Working Capital Costs Longer shipping periods mean your funds are locked in for longer, which includes interest costs to account for.

In summary, exporting MDF wood to Iran still presents a real opportunity with buyers, but a pricing decision must take into account transportation costs, documentation, and payment risks in full, not just the seemingly large order size.

How to think before deciding whether to move forward or wait.

I'm not saying the Iranian market is unattractive, because the buy signals are very clear and there are experienced and financially capable buyers. But I want you to make your decision based on factual information, not just on seemingly large figures.

There are three questions you should ask yourself: First, if you have to use a longer route and pay 50–1001 TP3T more in freight costs, can you still make a profit? Second, do you have a payment system that can support trading with Iran through an intermediary? Third, if the situation drags on for another 6–12 months, are you willing to accept that risk?

If your answer is "yes" to all three, then preparing now makes sense. But if you're unsure about any of them, you should gather more information before investing time and resources in negotiations.

Steps to take if you're ready to get started.

If you decide to proceed with the Iranian market, there are a few steps you should take. Start by contacting the Thai Trade Center in Tehran for more information about OJA WOOD MOEIN or Pars Rubber Products, as they have direct discussions with both companies and may be able to help arrange a meeting.

Next, find a freight forwarder with direct experience on the Persian Gulf route, not just a general forwarder, as this route is complex and requires specialized expertise. You can find more information about shipping route planning at [link/website]. SME Shipping This compiles logistics information for Thai SMEs.

Next, prepare your company documents for inspection, as Iranian buyers place great importance on supplier reliability. Finally, discuss payment terms with your bank regarding receiving payments from Iran through an intermediary before submitting any price offers.

Things to watch out for in the next 3–6 months.

The Iranian market is currently showing a yellow light—neither red nor green. You shouldn't ignore it, but you also shouldn't rush in without preparation. Here's what to watch out for over the next 3-6 months:

One, developments in the Middle East situation and its impact on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Two, freight rates on the Persian Gulf route, which better reflect the actual situation than political news. Three, the movements of regional competitors, especially Malaysia and Indonesia, who may accelerate their entry into the market when the situation opens up. And four, news from the Thai Trade Center in Tehran regarding a new round of business matching.

If you follow these signals, you'll know when it's the right time to move forward, without waiting for others to tell you.

Exporting MDF wood to Iran: Double-check before negotiating prices and before closing the container.

Before quoting a price to a buyer in Iran, you should clearly separate the cost of the goods, packing costs, shipping costs, insurance, documentation fees, and destination charges. If you combine everything into a single lump sum, you won't know where your profit goes when shipping costs change.

For MDF boards and natural rubber (STR20), the first step before submitting a price quote is to obtain complete destination information from the buyer. This includes the preferred port, Incoterms terms, desired delivery date, payment method, and customs documentation. This information helps you assess the risk before accepting the order.

If a buyer requests a price quote, you should check it carefully. Avoid giving a broad, approximate price; instead, provide a price range, specify the quotation's expiration date, and mention that freight surcharges or other additional costs may vary depending on the shipping booking date. This helps prevent disputes when the goods are ready for shipment.

Documentation issues should be checked from the beginning, not waiting until production is complete to inquire. Some documents require time to obtain from relevant agencies or labs. Missing documents on delivery day can result in costs beyond just penalties, including delays and decreased buyer trust.

The key areas to discuss with freight forwarders are monitoring route risk and landed-cost competitiveness. The article suggests sea access via Hormuz is vulnerable, while alternate routes through Pakistan or Turkey are costly. Thai SMEs should evaluate freight, transit time, and payment risk before quoting. Inquire about transit times for standard routes, alternative routes in case of risk, costs not included in the freight quote, and insurance terms and conditions in case of damage or delays.

Another point to be aware of is the high geopolitical and routing risk. The article also notes price competition from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. No customs or sanctions details are provided, so compliance status is unknown. This information may not be visible in the initial quotation but will emerge when the buyer reviews documents or when customs at the destination request additional information. Preparing this information in advance can help speed up the deal.

• Separate the cost of goods, shipping, insurance, and documentation onto different lines before submitting a price quote.
• Clearly confirm the Incoterms with the buyer, specifying who is responsible for the final delivery costs.
• Verify that the HS Code and product name in the invoice match the packing list and shipping documents.
• Please provide a freight quote that includes all applicable surcharges, not just the base freight price.
• Specify the expiration date of the quotation to mitigate the risk of fluctuating freight rates.
• Keep product certification documents and product photos ready to respond to buyers immediately.
• Start with a sample shipment if you haven't shipped to this market before, to reduce risk before placing a large order.

If you use this checklist before starting pricing discussions, your first export transaction won't be guesswork, but rather a decision based on actual costs, real documentation, and real risks. This will help you negotiate with the buyer with more confidence.

Source: Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP)

If you manufacture or export sportswear, functional fabrics, or activewear, the news that Israeli fashion retail giant Castro Model recently signed a 5-year franchise agreement with ANTA Sports worth over 300 million baht might sound like something only big brands do. However, exporting Thai sportswear to Israel is actually showing interesting signs for small-to-medium-sized Thai OEMs and activewear manufacturers as well.

First, it's important to understand that Israel has no domestic textile manufacturing facilities. All athletic apparel and footwear in the country are imported. The sportswear market there has grown by approximately 4%, reaching 7.4 billion NIS, despite geopolitical and inflationary pressures. This figure comes from a report by Euromonitor International and should be used as a directional signal, not as a definitive confirmation.

More noteworthy than the numbers themselves is that Israeli consumer behavior is changing. People there are wearing more athleisure clothing in their daily lives—for work, exercise, and leisure—which means the demand isn't limited to athletes but has spread to the general public with high purchasing power.

Why does Castro's deal involve Thai manufacturers?

The Castro Model isn't just importing ANTA Sports products; it's also establishing a new subsidiary to manage this product line specifically, and allowing external partners to hold up to 49% in shares. This means the Israeli retail group is looking for more diversified supply chains, moving beyond reliance solely on China.

The main reasons they want to diversify their supply chain stem from two factors: volatile shipping costs due to the Red Sea situation and the uncertainty of the Chinese supply chain in the post-COVID era. Thailand is in an attractive position for Israeli buyers because Thai factories have expertise in functional textiles that are in demand in the high-end market, including seamless fabrics, UV-reflective fabrics, antibacterial fabrics, and highly breathable fabrics.

But before you start contacting buyers or sending catalogs, there are several things you need to understand, because the Israeli market has a unique context that differs from other markets.

Product standards required by the Israeli market, and what Thailand needs to prepare for.

Israel primarily uses product standards equivalent to EU Standards, even though it is not a member of the EU. Most Israeli importers expect their products to meet European safety standards, especially in children's clothing and sportswear that comes into direct contact with the skin.

For activewear and functional textiles, Israeli buyers typically request during initial negotiations the following: chemical residue test results according to OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or equivalent, colorfastness test results according to ISO standards, and accurate fiber content declarations matching the product label.

If you produce goods from recycled fibers, such as recycled polyester, which is becoming popular in Israel, you should have a GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certificate ready, as high-end buyers often request this document before making an order.

Exporting Thai sportswear to Israel: Documents to prepare before the buyer asks for them.

Exporting clothing and textiles to Israel is not as complicated as to the EU or US markets, but there are still basic documents that need to be prepared. Incomplete documentation may result in goods being held at Israeli customs.

• Commercial Invoice The product value is specified, the product description is clear, and the HS Code is correct.
• Packing List Matches all items on the invoice, including weight and number of boxes.
• Certificate of Origin (Form A or GSP) To request reduced import tariffs, if Thailand is eligible for those product groups.
• Fiber Content Declaration Indicate the fiber composition as a percentage, in both English and Hebrew if possible.
• Lab test results According to the standards set by the buyer, such as OEKO-TEX and REACH Compliance for prohibited chemicals.
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill The destination port is clearly specified, usually Ashdod Port or Ben Gurion Airport.
• Additional standard certificates For example, GRS for recycled fibers or GOTS for organic. If your product falls into one of these categories,

The average time to obtain certification from a laboratory in Thailand is 2-4 weeks, depending on the type of test. It's advisable to plan this in advance before the buyer requests product samples, because if the lab results aren't available yet but the buyer wants to place an order, you might lose a favorable negotiation opportunity.

Thailand-Israel shipping routes and risks you need to know.

The main route for shipping goods from Thailand to Israel is by sea through the Suez Canal to the Port of Ashdod, Israel's main port. The estimated transit time is 25-35 days, depending on the shipping line and transshipment point.

A potential issue to be aware of at the moment is the unrest in the Red Sea, causing some shipping lines to avoid this route and instead绕 around the Cape of Good Hope. This adds approximately 10-14 days to transit times and significantly increases freight costs. If you are planning to ship goods to Israel, you should check with your freight forwarder beforehand about which route their current shipping line is using and how it will affect your lead time.

For high-value items per unit, such as functional textiles or seamless garments, air freight for first orders or sample shipments may be more cost-effective. This reduces downtime risks and builds buyer confidence more quickly.

Wholesale and online channels you should know before negotiating.

In the Israeli market, there are two main retail groups that control the distribution channels for fashion and sportswear: Fox Group, which holds the licenses for Nike and Mango in Israel and operates Terminal X, the country's largest online fashion marketplace, and Castro Model, which recently signed a contract with ANTA Sports.

Terminal X is particularly interesting because its platform uses a visual AI system to recommend products, has an automated warehouse, and offers nationwide next-day delivery. The platform recently acquired the digital activewear brand Strongful, reflecting its serious expansion into the sportswear segment.

If you're interested in entering this market, the most realistic approach for Thai SMEs is to start by offering yourself as a White Label Supplier or OEM to buyers who already have established channels, rather than trying to directly compete with Nike or Adidas with your own brand. Marketing and branding in new markets require more time and money than you might think.

Calculating actual costs before setting a bid price for the buyer.

One of the most common mistakes in initial exports is setting prices without fully calculating the landing cost, which results in a loss of margin after the goods have reached the buyer.

For exports to Israel, costs that must be included in the Landed Cost include: sea or air freight charges, cargo insurance, Israeli customs duties (which vary depending on the HS code of the product), Israeli VAT (currently 17%), freight forwarder service fees on both the Thai and Israeli sides, and laboratory certification renewal fees.

For example, if you sell seamless leggings at FOB price of 8 USD per piece, shipping and destination charges could add another 2-4 USD per piece depending on the volume and route, before the buyer adds their own margin. Therefore, the FOB price you set must be reasonable compared to the retail price that the Israeli market accepts, not just cheaper than competitors.

Exporting Thai sportswear to Israel: Things to check before starting negotiations with the actual buyer.

• Check the HS Code. Please ensure your product information is correct, as Israeli import tariffs vary depending on the HS Code and fiber type.
• Prepare lab results. According to the standards set by the buyer at least 4 weeks before sample delivery.
• Check the ferry route. Ask the freight forwarder about the shipping lines used for routes through the Red Sea or around the Cape of Good Hope, and the actual lead time.
• Prepare the Fiber Content Declaration. Make sure the product is complete and matches the label exactly, because Israel checks this at the import customs.
• I have a question about Incoterms. Clarify with the buyer before signing the contract whether it's FOB, CIF, or DDP, as each type affects the liability of expenses differently.
• Check the return policy. For buyers, this is because the online market in Israel has a high return rate, especially for fashion items.
• Plan Payment Terms Use tight payment terms such as L/C or T/T 30% in advance to reduce payment risk with new buyers.

OEM and Private Label are the most realistic avenues for Thai SMEs.

If you are a factory or manufacturer without your own brand, OEM and Private Label channels are the most sensible starting point for the Israeli market. Buyers there already have existing sales channels, but lack reliable suppliers outside of China.

The strengths of Thai factories that are of interest to Israeli buyers lie in their ability to produce innovative functional textiles, such as seamless fabrics, antibacterial fabrics, and fabrics made from recycled fibers. The high-end market in Israel is willing to pay higher prices for these materials than for typical mass-market products.

For Thai activewear brands with their own designs, the differentiating factor from Western brands is the body-flattering patterns and the use of diverse color palettes. This might interest the niche market in Israel, which is tired of mass-produced goods, but it will take time to build credibility and a customer base.

Questions to ask the buyer before accepting the first order.

Before you accept an order from an Israeli buyer, there are some questions you should ask to clarify things in order to prevent potential problems later.

The first question is, what compliance documents does the buyer require, and who will bear the testing costs? Some buyers expect the supplier to cover these expenses, which could significantly impact your margin.

The second question is, what is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) that the buyer requires, and what is the acceptable lead time in days? Because if the MOQ is low but the lead time is very short, you might have to bear the cost of air freight instead of sea freight, which will immediately impact your costs.

The third question is, what is the buyer's sustainability policy? Because the high-end Israeli market is increasingly asking about carbon footprint and ethical manufacturing. If your factory already has certifications in these areas, you should highlight them as a selling point in negotiations.

Things to watch out for next.

Castro's deal with ANTA Sports will begin its full-scale implementation in 2027, meaning that the period from 2025-2026 will be when Israeli buyers are planning their supply chains and looking for new partners. If you are interested in this market, starting to build relationships with buyers now through international trade shows such as MEGA SHOW Bangkok or GFT will be more beneficial than waiting for the market to fully open before starting.

In terms of logistics, the situation in the Red Sea should be continuously monitored because freight rates and lead times remain volatile. Planning for buffer stock, or shipping goods further in advance than usual, may help mitigate delivery time risks.

For more information on international logistics planning, you can refer to the following references: smeshipping.com This compiles information related to exports for Thai SMEs.

Finally, the Israeli sportswear market is an interesting prospect, but it's not an easy or fast market. Entering a new market takes time to build trust, prepare thorough documentation, and understand actual costs before setting prices. If you prepare these aspects beforehand, your chances of finding genuine buyers are much greater than rushing to send out catalogs without supporting data.

Exporting Thai sportswear to Israel: Double-check before negotiating prices and finalizing container shipments.

Before submitting a bid to a buyer in Israel, you should clearly separate the cost of the goods, packing costs, shipping costs, insurance, documentation fees, and destination charges. If you combine everything into a single lump sum, you won't know where your profit goes when shipping costs fluctuate.

For apparel, sportswear, and activewear, the first step before submitting a price quote is to obtain complete destination information from the buyer. This includes the preferred port, Incoterms terms, desired delivery date, payment method, and customs clearance documents. This information helps you assess the risk before accepting the order.

If a buyer requests a price quote, you should check it carefully. Avoid giving a broad, approximate price; instead, provide a price range, specify the quotation's expiration date, and mention that freight surcharges or other additional costs may vary depending on the shipping booking date. This helps prevent disputes when the goods are ready for shipment.

Documentation issues should be checked from the beginning, not waiting until production is complete to inquire. Some documents require time to obtain from relevant agencies or labs. Missing documents on delivery day can result in costs beyond just penalties, including delays and decreased buyer trust.

When discussing shipping with a freight forwarder, ask about the standard shipping time, alternative routes in case of risk, costs not included in the freight quote, and insurance claim conditions in case of damage or delays.

Another point to be aware of is that some details may not be clearly stated in the initial quotation. This information might not be visible in the first quotation but will emerge when the buyer reviews the documents or when customs at the destination request additional information. Preparing this information in advance can therefore help speed up the deal.

• Separate the cost of goods, shipping, insurance, and documentation onto different lines before submitting a price quote.
• Clearly confirm the Incoterms with the buyer, specifying who is responsible for the final delivery costs.
• Verify that the HS Code and product name in the invoice match the packing list and shipping documents.
• Please provide a freight quote that includes all applicable surcharges, not just the base freight price.
• Specify the expiration date of the quotation to mitigate the risk of fluctuating freight rates.
• Keep product certification documents and product photos ready to respond to buyers immediately.
• Start with a sample shipment if you haven't shipped to this market before, to reduce risk before placing a large order.

For SMEs planning to export sportswear to Israel, use this as a preliminary checklist, then verify the details with the buyer and freight forwarder for each specific shipment.

If you use this checklist before starting pricing discussions, your first export transaction won't be guesswork, but rather a decision based on actual costs, real documentation, and real risks. This will help you negotiate with the buyer with more confidence.

Source: Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) / Globes Israel / Euromonitor International

Intellectual property in Vietnam has become a serious issue that Thai SMEs need to pay close attention to, not just as a policy rumor. Since the end of May 2016, the Vietnamese government has launched a nationwide crackdown on IP infringement, and the results have been faster and more severe than many anticipated. If you export branded goods, OEM products, or sell through online platforms in Vietnam, this article is a must-read before preparing your next shipment.

What happened in Vietnam, and why so quickly?

The issue stems from the United States launching an investigation into Vietnam under Section 301 of the Trade Act, placing Vietnam in the Priority Foreign Country (IP) category—the most severe status and the first country to be added to this list in 13 years. The factor pressuring the US is the trade deficit with Vietnam, which reached $54.8 billion in the first quarter of 2026 alone.

Vietnam responded with Prime Minister's Order No. 38/CĐ-TTg on May 5, 2026, launching an immediate nationwide proactive operation. Within less than a month, the results included 1,438 IP violation cases, 1,146 administrative actions, 28 criminal charges, fines totaling over 12.6 billion VND (approximately $480,000), and confiscated goods worth approximately $1.4 million. These figures are not just statistics; they highlight the real risk of your business being stopped at customs or removed from a platform.

How do intellectual property rights in Vietnam affect Thai SMEs?

If you're exporting products with your logo, brand, or unique design to Vietnam, whether through an agent, e-commerce platform like Shopee or Lazada Vietnam, or directly to an importer, there are two levels of risk to be aware of: at the customs level and at the market level.

At the customs level, this means that the goods you send may be checked by the Market Surveillance Force or Vietnamese customs officials to ensure that the trademarks, copyrights, or patents on the products are registered in Vietnam. Without proof, the goods may be detained, and the release process could take significantly longer than usual.

At the market level, this means that if your product is complained about by a competitor or the platform detects a lack of clear IP documentation, the product may be removed from the online store or your seller account may be suspended without prior notice. This directly impacts sales and buyer relationships.

What types of products require special caution?

This operation doesn't specify any particular product category, but based on the nature of the cases, the products to be most wary of include those with clear logos or brands, such as clothing, bags, shoes, electronic devices, cosmetics, and skincare products; OEM products manufactured for foreign brands but lacking production licensing documentation; products sold through online marketplaces that already have IP complaint systems in place; and products with designs or packaging that may be perceived as similar to brands registered in Vietnam.

If you manufacture OEM products for foreign brands and ship directly to Vietnam, you will need an authorization letter from the brand owner clearly stating that you are authorized to produce and export products under that brand. This document should be prepared in English and should have verifiable certification from the brand owner.

IP document checklist before shipping goods to Vietnam.

Before you prepare your next batch, check this list to make sure you have everything you need.

• Trademark Certificate Registered in Vietnam or in the country of origin, with a verifiable registration number.
• Authorization letter From the brand owner: If you are an OEM or distributor, please specify the licensee's name, time period, and scope of products.
• Documents proving origin A valid Certificate of Origin, in accordance with trade treaties such as ATIGA or RCEP, is required for customs clearance.
• Invoice and Packing List The brand name, model, and product code listed match the label on the actual product perfectly; there are no discrepancies.
• Product labels in Vietnamese According to Vietnamese law, the product name, country of origin, ingredients, and instructions for use must be fully stated.
• Supplier traceability documentation For example, the factory name, address, and lot number linked to the batch shipped, so that it can be used to answer customs questions immediately.
• Contract or purchase order Between you and the buyer in Vietnam, clearly specify Incoterms such as FOB or CIF to determine who is responsible if the goods are held at destination.

The hidden risks in transportation costs.

Many people think of IP risk only in terms of whether the goods will be seized, but in reality, a more significant impact is the unexpected increased cost. If goods are held at Vietnamese customs, you have to pay for storage at the port or customs warehouse, which is charged on a daily basis. And if the process takes 2-3 weeks, this cost can be much higher than anticipated.

Furthermore, if you sell under a CIF or DDP agreement, you assume all the risk. However, if you sell under an FOB agreement, the buyer in Vietnam will be responsible. Nevertheless, if the goods are seized due to incomplete IP (Input) documents and it's your fault, the buyer may claim damages or cancel future orders. Therefore, checking the documents before shipment is crucial to protecting both costs and business relationships.

For temperature-sensitive goods such as food or cosmetics, delays at customs have an even greater impact. In addition to storage costs, there's the risk of the goods being damaged or expiring before reaching the buyer, meaning the entire batch might have to be discarded.

Questions to ask your customs broker before shipping.

If you are using a customs broker in Vietnam or have an agent handling import procedures, try asking these questions before the goods leave Thailand.

1. Are Vietnamese customs currently checking more IP (Initial Product) documents for the categories of goods we are shipping? 2. If the goods are detained, what additional documents do we need to prepare, and how long will it take? 3. Are our trademarks registered in Vietnam? If not, what are the risks? 4. Are the product labels we are currently using compliant with current Vietnamese law? 5. If there are IP issues during customs clearance, how long does the appeal process take, and what are the approximate costs?

Vietnamese online platforms and the risks that cannot be overlooked.

Another dimension that many haven't considered is the risks on e-commerce platforms in Vietnam, such as Shopee VN, Lazada VN, Tiki, and TikTok Shop Vietnam. These platforms already have IP complaint systems in place. Furthermore, with the Vietnamese government launching a crackdown on counterfeit goods and consumer protection specifically in e-commerce, these platforms are under increased pressure to scrutinize their stores and products.

If you have an online store in Vietnam or agents selling your products on these platforms, you should check if your store or your agent's store has uploaded IP (Initial Permit) documents to the platform's system. Because if a complaint is filed and the documents are not ready, your products may be removed before an appeal can be filed later, causing your sales to stall immediately.

Furthermore, the Vietnamese government has proposed a draft decree granting state agencies the power to directly block domain names that violate IP regulations. This means that if you have an online store in Vietnam and encounter IP issues in the future, your website could be blocked without going through a court process.

Should I register my trademark in Vietnam?

If you sell your own branded products in Vietnam and haven't yet registered your trademark there, now is a time to seriously consider it. Vietnam uses a first-to-file system, meaning whoever registers first gets the rights first. If a competitor or distributor you've used before registers your brand in Vietnam first, you might not be able to use your brand in that market at all.

The trademark registration process in Vietnam generally takes around 12-18 months and is relatively inexpensive considering the potential risks. If you haven't started yet, you should consult an IP lawyer in Vietnam or an international IP registration service provider to assess the risks your brand faces in that market.

Things to watch out for over the next 3-6 months.

This situation is far from over with a single operation, as the Vietnamese government plans to establish a national IP law enforcement database within this year. This will enable faster and more comprehensive investigation and tracking of cases. Furthermore, the Market Surveillance Force has announced it will continue to intensify its law enforcement efforts.

Key issues to watch over the next 3-6 months include the progress of trade negotiations between Vietnam and the US. If the negotiations are successful, IP pressure may ease somewhat; however, if they fail, actions could intensify. Additionally, it's important to monitor whether the draft decree on domain blocking has passed and how Vietnamese e-commerce platforms are updating their IP policies.

If you have an agent or importer in Vietnam, you should ask them to update you, at least monthly, on any changes to regulations or increased inspections in your product category. Information from local sources is often faster than official news.

Summarizing before preparing the next batch.

What's happening in Vietnam isn't just a temporary policy adjustment, but a signal that the Vietnamese market is seriously raising its IP standards. In the long run, this could be beneficial for legitimate brands, but in the short term, if you haven't prepared your documentation, the risk of your products being detained, seized, or removed from the platform is real and can happen quickly.

Before shipping your next batch, review whether your trademark is registered in Vietnam, if all authorization documents are complete, if the product labels are correct, and if the Incoterms used align with your acceptable risk level. Answering these questions before shipment is far better than having to resolve issues after the goods arrive at their destination.

For more information regarding exporting to Vietnam and customs documentation issues, please refer to the following references. SME SHIPPING

Intellectual Property in Vietnam: Documents to have ready before a Vietnamese buyer or distributor asks further questions.

If you sell branded products with unique logos and packaging, or already have distributors in Vietnam, you should prepare not only an invoice and packing list, but also proof of trademark rights, details of the rights holder and licensee, and documents demonstrating that the product batch originated from a traceable source.

This point is crucial because as enforcement tightens, end buyers may request documentation verifying their rights sooner to mitigate the risk of counterfeits, inferior products, or products with labels that don't match the brand owner. If you respond slowly, the shipment may not be immediately canceled, but the trust of your trading partner will significantly decrease.

Check the distributor agreement and brand usage rights; make sure they tell the same story.

Many Thai businesses have distributors in Vietnam, but the documents regarding appointment, trademark rights, and label information are in different versions. When customs inspectors intensify their checks or marketplaces request additional evidence, even a single discrepancy could force partners to temporarily suspend sales or delay the receipt of new shipments.

• Verify that the brand owner's name matches the name on the certificate, power of attorney, and other commercial documents.
• Check that the importer or distributor has clear permission to use the logo, slogan, and packaging images in Vietnam.
• Keep the final version of the artwork file, along with the approval date and approver, for use in answering past questions.
• Check that the product labels in Vietnamese and English do not conflict with the information of the copyright holder.
• Ask your partners: If the marketplace or staff requests additional documents, who responds and how long does it take?
• Establish a procedure for halting sales or holding inventory in advance, specifying who is responsible for the costs and who decides to release the remaining stock.

Risk factors in marketplaces and online channels that Thai SMEs should not overlook.

If your products are sold through multiple agents or online channels, the risk isn't just counterfeit goods, but also from product images, names, and descriptions that might lead inspectors to suspect unclear brand usage. As Vietnam intensifies its crackdown, sellers with incomplete documentation are always questioned.

What you should ask your partner is: Who is currently responsible for removing inappropriate listings? Who has the authority to report violations to the platform? And what evidence do they have readily available? If the answers are unclear, you should consider this a back-end risk that will ultimately impact your in-store sales.

Hidden costs that may arise when inspections are conducted or additional documents are requested.

Even if the goods aren't seized, the importer or distributor incurs immediate costs when having to halt sales while waiting for documentation. These include storage costs, lost retail space opportunities, paused advertising, and the staff costs associated with fulfilling the paperwork. Therefore, when setting prices or offering credit terms, you should discuss potential costs associated with strict customs checks beforehand. Otherwise, your expected profits may be lost due to the expenses of resolving issues after the goods reach their destination.

If your product category relies heavily on brand credibility, such as cosmetics, supplements, household goods, or products with unique designs, you should incorporate the cost of compliance response time into your plan. This is because increasingly stringent markets tend to reward suppliers who submit documents promptly and eliminate those who respond slowly.

Intellectual Property in Vietnam: A Quick Checklist for Export Teams

To effectively use this article, the sales team, documentation team, and freight forwarder should discuss, before the next shipment, what documents are required to verify brand rights in Vietnam, who owns the trademark, and who will answer questions from customs or platforms when inspected.

Points to double-check include the brand name on the invoice, product images, packaging, authorization letter, and contract with the distributor. In Vietnam, intellectual property regulations affect not only counterfeit goods but also OEM products and products with unique designs. If the documentation is unclear, even good products may be delayed due to insufficient responses to inquiries.

For Thai SMEs, a safe approach is to keep a file containing intellectual property documents for Vietnam alongside every export shipment and clearly identify the responsible party for responding before the goods leave Thailand.

Source: DITP

If you send Canned vegetables shipped to Canada. Whether it's canned corn, canned beans, or mixed vegetables, there are things you need to know before the next shipment arrives, because starting June 19, 2026, Canada begins harvesting. Canadian canned vegetable tax. Adding another 101 TP3T in the form of a temporary surtax, and with Thailand on the list of countries where it's enforced, this isn't news to be taken lightly, as it directly impacts landed costs.

What is this Canadian canned vegetable tax (10%), and why is it happening now?

The Canadian Ministry of Finance announced a temporary surtax of 10% for imported canned vegetables, citing an unusually rapid increase in import volumes that is severely impacting domestic producers. This measure is scheduled to last a maximum of 200 days and was announced before the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) concludes its investigation, which is scheduled to finish in September 2026.

One reason Canada rushed to implement these measures was trade diversion. When the US imposed high tariffs, goods from many countries that were previously geared towards the US shifted to Canada instead. Figures from Statistics Canada show that imports of canned vegetables from Thailand increased by 1,791 TP3T in recent months. This figure has made Thailand one of the most closely watched countries.

Products covered under this measure include canned corn, peas, green beans, and wax beans; mixed vegetables of peas and carrots; and mixed vegetables of white beans, red beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas. If your product matches this list, immediately check that your current HS code matches the one specified in Canada.

Which countries are exempt, and where does Thailand fit in?

This measure exempts goods from the United States, Mexico, Israel, Chile, and developing countries that receive preferential treatment from Canada. Thailand, Italy, China, Peru, Turkey, and Vietnam are among those subject to this measure.

The key point is that the term "developing countries receiving preferential treatment from Canada" may or may not apply to Thailand, depending on Canada's current GSP status. This needs to be checked directly with a Canadian customs broker; avoid drawing conclusions based on any single article. A misunderstanding could lead to the importer paying the taxes first and then claiming reimbursement from you later.

How can the impact on landed costs be roughly estimated?

If your product is indeed subject to surtax 10%, consider this: Assuming the FOB price of canned vegetables is around US$800 per ton, adding freight, insurance, and normal import duties, the landed cost in Canada might be around US$1,100–US$1,200 per ton. Adding surtax 10% on top of that increases the price by approximately US$110–US$120 per ton. If you're selling in a price-competitive market with thin margins, this figure can have a greater impact than you might think.

What should be done immediately is to recalculate the landed cost along with the surtax for 10% and see if the price agreed upon with the buyer is still profitable. If not, you need to discuss this with the buyer before the goods depart, not after they arrive at the port.

Documents and HS codes to check before sending.

Surtax measures typically identify covered goods using specific HS codes, which Canada publishes in the Canada Gazette or official Treasury announcements. If you're unsure whether your product's HS code is on the list of items subject to surtax, here's what you should check.

• HS code used for export. Does it match what Canada specifies in its surtax announcement? This needs to be compared with the latest Canadian Customs Tariff document.
• Certificate of Origin The correct origin of the goods must be specified because this measure varies depending on the country of origin.
• Commercial Invoice Clearly state FOB or CIF prices because the tax calculation basis may be based on the value of the goods.
• Packing List The type of canned vegetables must be clearly specified, as some items may be exceptions.
• Health Certificate or Phytosanitary Certificate If the end buyer requires any additional information, it should be prepared in advance.
• Questions to ask a customs broker in Canada. Check whether your products are subject to tax and whether there are any avenues to apply for an exemption.
• Follow Canada Gazette. To see if there are any amendments to the list of products or additional exemptions during the 200 days the measure is in effect.

How to communicate with the end buyer when costs change.

If you already have a buyer in Canada and are about to ship a new batch, the first thing you should do is inform them about the new tax regulations and that you are checking whether your goods are subject to them. Don't wait until the goods arrive at the port to discuss this, because if the buyer hasn't prepared for it, they might refuse to accept the goods or negotiate a price reduction retrospectively, which would put you at a significant disadvantage.

Key issues to discuss with the buyer include who is responsible for the tariff between you and the buyer. If the Incoterms used are FOB, the buyer pays at the destination. However, if it's DDP or DAP, you may have to bear that burden instead. Be sure to check the Incoterms in the contract carefully beforehand.

The timing of product delivery is more important than you think.

This measure is effective from June 19, 2026. If your goods depart before that date and arrive at the Canadian port after that date, you need to check whether the date used to calculate the tax is the date the goods leave Thailand or the date the goods clear customs in Canada. Because if it's the date of customs clearance, goods that depart earlier but arrive later may still be subject to tax.

For planned shipments, it's essential to discuss with your freight forwarder the transit time for each route and the estimated arrival date at the Canadian port to accurately calculate the landed cost. Avoid calculating based on the original price agreed upon before these measures were implemented. For more information on Thailand-Canada shipping routes, please see [link/website]. SME SHIPPING It compiles international transportation data.

This measure will only last for 200 days, and after that...?

As announced, this surtax has a maximum timeframe of 200 days, and CITT will conclude its investigation in September 2026. If CITT finds that the Canadian industry has suffered damages, the measure may be extended or become permanent. If CITT finds no damages, importers who have already paid the surtax may receive a refund, but that process is time-consuming and requires self-application.

What to watch closely during this period is the outcome of the CITT investigation in September 2026, and what direction it will take. If permanent measures are announced, will they cover the same types of products, or will they be extended to frozen vegetables as well, since this investigation covers both canned and frozen vegetables?

How should products be adjusted if we want to stay in the Canadian market long-term?

Such measures are often implemented for products that compete primarily on price. When prices are too low, producers in the destination country feel pressured and request government protection. If you want to stay in the Canadian market longer, developing products with unique selling points compared to Canadian manufacturers is a direction you should consider.

Practical examples include certified organic canned vegetables from Canadian-recognized agencies, ready-to-eat canned vegetables with unique ingredients or flavors that Canadian producers don't offer, or packaging tailored to specific consumer groups (e.g., low sodium or no preservatives). These products compete on value, not just price, and are less likely to be subject to protectionist measures.

Summary of things to do before the next batch departs.

If you are currently shipping canned vegetables to Canada, or planning to do so, here's a clear sequence of actions to take. First, check your product's HS code with your Canadian customs broker to determine if it's subject to surtax. Second, recalculate your landed cost, incorporating surtax 10%. Third, inform your buyer and agree on who will bear the tax burden. Fourth, check your existing Incoterms contract to see if this situation is covered. Fifth, monitor the Canada Gazette and the CITT investigation results for September 2026. And sixth, for upcoming shipments, check with your freight forwarder whether the goods will arrive at the Canadian port before or after June 19, 2026.

These measures do not mean the Canadian market is closed to Thai exporters, but rather that costs and conditions have changed. Preparing well before shipment is always better than trying to solve problems after the goods arrive at the port.

Source: DITP https://www.ditp.go.th/post/fgfb7ya3lfjjjkz392wtxtoh

If you Sending Thai food to the UAE. Whether already in place or about to begin, there are things you should know before closing your next container. Data from DITP indicates that between 2024 and May 2026, 50 food and beverage items from Thailand were rejected for import by Dubai Municipality (DM). Over 70% of these issues stemmed from the same problem: ethanol exceeding the UAE's permitted limit. This sounds simple, but in practice, it can happen to products that have already received Thai FDA approval.

That's where many people miss the point, thinking that if it meets Thai standards, it should also meet destination standards. However, the UAE, especially Dubai, uses its own criteria, which in many parameters are much stricter than Thailand's. And some problems, such as the increase in ethanol during transport, are not the fault of the production formula, but rather issues with the cold chain and the duration in the container.

Why are the standards for sending Thai food to the UAE so different from those in Thailand?

The UAE is a Muslim country with very strict controls on alcohol content in food and beverages. The ethanol limit for beverages is only 0.01–0.101 TP3T, while soy sauces are allowed up to 0.301 TP3T. However, if your product is found to contain 0.18–0.641 TP3T, which is the range that DM (Disposal Method) actually found in Thai products, then it is considered to exceed the limit.

The standard used in the UAE is called GSO, or Gulf Standardization Organization, which is a common standard of the GCC countries, not just Dubai. Therefore, if you ship goods to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, or Qatar, you must use the GSO criteria, not the Thai FDA or Thai Industrial Standards (TIS).

It's worth noting that most problems don't stem from intentional violations, but rather from gaps between two sets of standards that exporters are unaware of, or know of but don't test using the DM (Directive Testing) methods, which can result in different outcomes.

How is ethanol formed in fruit juices and sauces during transportation?

This is very important for those shipping fruit juices, coconut water, or sauces to the UAE because the ethanol in these products doesn't come from added alcohol, but from natural fermentation during transport, especially when containers heat up or the cold chain is interrupted. Microorganisms remaining in the product will convert sugar into ethanol, and even a small increase in levels can exceed the UAE's ethanol limit.

Examples of products actually found by DM include 22 different fruit juices, various brands of sauces and soy sauce, chicken sausages, and even organic black sticky rice. This means that seemingly harmless products can still contain excess ethanol if temperature control during transport is not adequate.

Before sealing the container, the first thing to do is check the ethanol content of the product at a lab using the GC-FID method, the same method used by DM. If you send the sample to a lab using a different method, the results may differ and cannot be directly compared to DM's criteria.

SO₂, cadmium, and the weight of drained meat: issues that are rarely discussed.

Besides ethanol, there are other issues found in Thai products that are worth knowing. Sulfur dioxide, or SO₂, is found in coconut milk and coconut water at levels between 36–43 mg/kg, while the UAE limit is only 30 mg/kg. SO₂ often comes from preservatives or bleaching agents used in the production process. If you ship products in this category, you should always check the production formula and the amount of sulfites used.

Cadmium in canned mackerel is another issue to be concerned about. DM found cadmium levels of 126 and 377 µg/kg in Thai products, clearly exceeding the 100 µg/kg limit, especially the 377 µg/kg item, which is almost four times higher than the limit. This problem needs to be addressed at the source of raw materials and the production process, not just through pre-shipment testing.

Drain weight is often overlooked, but DM (Department of Disposal) tests have found that canned water chestnuts had a drain weight of only 44–501 TP3T, while the minimum requirement is 551 TP3T, and canned pineapples had a drain weight of 501 TP3T, but the requirement is 581 TP3T. If you ship canned fruit, you should check the drain weight of each batch, not just the total weight.

QR codes on e-Phytosanitary documents: a small problem that can halt the delivery of an entire container.

This is something many people are unaware of until the goods reach Dubai customs and fail to clear. Dubai DM and Customs use QR code scanning to verify the authenticity of documents, especially e-Phytosanitary Certificates. If the printed document lacks a clearly scannable QR code, fresh fruits and vegetables will be rejected, regardless of their quality.

This problem can easily occur, such as when the QR code is printed too small or unclear, or the document generation system has a problem on that day, resulting in an incomplete QR code. Before shipping fresh fruits and vegetables, always print the document and test scan the QR code with a mobile phone. If it cannot be scanned, you must request a new document from the Department of Agriculture (DOA) before the goods leave the factory.

Required documents for shipping food to the UAE include a Health Certificate, an Organic Certificate (if applicable), and an e-Phytosanitary Certificate with a clear QR code for fresh fruits and vegetables. Missing any of these documents may result in detention or the entire container being returned.

Preservatives and fat content in coconut milk are two more points to check.

The tapioca pearls detected by DM contained 2,284 mg/kg of sorbic acid and 1,478 mg/kg of benzoic acid, both exceeding the 1,000 mg/kg limit. If you ship products using these types of preservatives, you should verify the actual amounts used in your production formula and have them tested in a lab before shipment, as the UAE standards may be lower than you think.

The problematic coconut milk had a fat content of only 4.221 TP3T, while the UAE minimum standard is 5.01 TP3T. This problem may be due to a production formula using too much water, or a process that causes fat separation and loss during production. If you ship coconut milk or other coconut products, you should check the fat content of every batch before sealing the container.

Impact on costs and landing costs when goods are rejected in Dubai.

If goods are rejected by customs at the Dubai port, the costs incurred don't stop at the lost merchandise. There are also daily container docking fees, customs broker fees in Dubai, return shipping costs, or destruction costs if return is not cost-effective. Even more significant is the damage to the relationship with the buyer, as they did not receive the goods they ordered.

Let's take a rough estimate for a detained 20-foot container. Container docking fees in Dubai could be 50–150 USD per day. If detained for 2–3 weeks while awaiting test results or additional documentation, this cost alone could reach 700–3,000 USD, not including damaged goods, customs broker fees, and other operational costs, which would make the actual landing cost significantly higher than calculated.

Performing pre-shipment testing on every batch, while adding approximately 3,000–8,000 THB per test depending on the number of parameters checked, is far more worthwhile compared to the potential potential damage. It also ensures you have lab results to provide to your buyer, with some buyers in the UAE already requesting these results before placing orders.

Timeline for documents and lab work: How many days before the cabinet is closed should preparation begin?

If you plan to close the container on date X, you should start the preparation process at least 3–4 weeks in advance, as sending samples to an ISO/IEC 17025 certified lab such as the Food Institute or Central Lab Thailand and waiting for test results can take 7–14 days, depending on the parameters being tested.

If the lab results show a problem, you still have time to adjust the formula or change the batch of ingredients and resubmit the samples before the final container shipment. However, if you submit the lab samples just a week before the container shipment and the results are negative, you have virtually no choice but to postpone the shipment or accept the risk.

For e-Phytosanitary Certificates, please coordinate with the Department of Agriculture at least 5-7 working days in advance. Once you receive the document, immediately test scan the QR code before the product leaves the factory or warehouse.

Questions that customs brokers in Dubai often ask when goods are detained.

If your goods are held at Dubai customs, the customs broker in Dubai will usually ask you these questions beforehand: Do you have pre-shipment lab results, and what testing method was used? Do you have complete hygiene certificates? Is the QR code on the documents scannable? Is the goods being transported in a cold chain or dry container, and are temperature records kept during transit?

If you can answer these questions immediately with supporting documentation, the problem-solving process will be much faster. But if there is no documentation at all, the broker can do very little, and the goods may be held longer or eventually ordered destroyed.

Communicating with buyers in the UAE when problems arise at customs.

A topic often overlooked is how to communicate with buyers when goods are detained or rejected in Dubai. A practical piece of advice is to inform the buyer immediately upon discovering a problem. Don't wait for the broker to resolve the issue before telling them, as buyers appreciate transparency from the start.

Send the buyer the available documents, such as lab results, certificates, and reports from the broker in Dubai, to demonstrate that you are working on resolving the issue. If the problem is solvable, such as missing QR codes, inform the buyer how you will address it in the next batch to maintain the business relationship.

Checklist before sealing the food delivery container for the UAE.

• Check ethanol levels. Using the GC-FID method at an ISO/IEC 17025 lab before sealing each lot, especially fruit juices, coconut water, and sauces.
• Check the SO₂ level. In products that use sulfites as a preservative, such as coconut milk and coconut water, the maximum concentration must not exceed 30 mg/kg, according to UAE guidelines.
• Check the drain weight. Canned fruits and vegetables must meet the minimum standards of the UAE, not just Thailand.
• Cadmium test Using the ICP-MS method, the concentration of pollutants in canned fish, especially mackerel, must not exceed 100 µg/kg.
• Inspect for preservatives. Sorbic acid and benzoic acid must not exceed 1,000 mg/kg according to UAE guidelines.
• Scan the QR Code If the e-Phytosanitary Certificate cannot be scanned before the product leaves the factory, a new one must be requested from the DOA (Dead on Arrival).
• Prepare the cold chain. For beverages and sauces, to inhibit fermentation that would increase ethanol content during transport.
• Use the GSO criteria as a benchmark. It's not compliant with Thailand's FDA or TIS standards because the UAE's criteria are stricter in many parameters.

Products that require special care before shipping to the UAE.

Based on the list of items that DM has actually rejected, products that require special caution include all types of fruit juices and beverages, sauces and soy sauce, coconut milk and coconut water, canned fruits and vegetables, canned fish, chicken sausages, and organic products made with naturally fermented ingredients.

Even seemingly safe products, such as organic black glutinous rice, can contain ethanol due to the natural fermentation process in the raw materials. Therefore, if your product contains fermentable ingredients, you should always check the ethanol content before shipment, regardless of the product type.

How do temperature and transportation routes affect ethanol prices?

The route from Thailand to Dubai generally takes about 14–21 days by sea, passing through the Strait of Malacca, the Arabian Sea, and arriving at Jebel Ali, Dubai's main port. During the journey, temperatures inside the dry container can reach 40–50°C, especially when passing through the Arabian Sea, particularly during the summer months.

The higher temperatures inside the container accelerate the activity of any remaining microorganisms in the product, significantly increasing ethanol content. If your product already has an ethanol content near the UAE ceiling when it leaves the factory, it may exceed it by the time it reaches Dubai. Therefore, using refrigerated containers or reefers for beverages and sauces is a worthwhile option to consider, even though it is more expensive than dry containers.

If you are still using dry containers, the ethanol content of the product should be tested to be at least 30–40% below the UAE limit to allow sufficient margin for any increase during transit. The temperature inside the container should also be recorded throughout the transit process to serve as evidence in case of problems at the destination.

Things to watch out for next.

DM has a "Our Food Source is Safe" project in place, discussing solutions to recurring problems with key exporting countries, including Thailand. This means that inspection criteria and processes may be adjusted in the future. It is advisable to regularly monitor announcements from DITP and the Department of Agriculture to stay informed of changes before they impact exports.

Additionally, it's important to monitor any adjustments to GSO parameters, particularly regarding ethanol in sauces and beverages. If the threshold is lowered further, products that pass today may not pass next year. Also, if you already have a buyer in the UAE, periodically providing them with the latest lab results will help build confidence and reduce the risk of them switching to other suppliers.

For those who require further information regarding food exports to the UAE and GCC markets, please refer to the following references. SME SHIPPING This compiles trade signals and logistics information for Thai SME exporters.

Source: DITP https://www.ditp.go.th/post/k7s9q5ygnphamh4kvlaitfj1

If you are currently shipping goods to Indonesia, or are about to start shipping them, there is one thing you should know before booking your next container: Indonesian import regulations. The revised regulations have a primary goal: to reduce delays at ports and improve compliance with import laws. This sounds like a move by the Indonesian side, but the real impact falls directly on you as a Thai exporter.

Indonesia is a market very close to Thailand. Shipping routes from Laem Chabang to Jakarta or Surabaya are not far. However, geographical proximity doesn't mean that documentation and customs procedures are easy. Indonesia has a relatively detailed import control system, and when regulations are changed, things that previously worked may now require additional documents or steps.

In short,Indonesian import regulations.This doesn't mean exports are impossible this time, but it means Thai SMEs need to prepare documents and discuss details with their trading partners before booking transportation.

See the original announcement from... DITP / Thai Trade Center in Jakarta To check.Indonesian import regulations.Latest update by myself.

What are the changes to Indonesian import regulations, and who is affected?

This regulatory adjustment has two clear goals: to reduce port delays and to increase the stringency of compliance. This means that if your documents are incomplete, don't match the HS code used, or your goods don't meet the required standards, there's a higher chance they will be held at the port. This doesn't just cause delays, but also incurs additional costs.

Those directly affected are Thai SMEs that regularly export goods to Indonesia, whether food, cosmetics, industrial products, or consumer goods, because each group has different import conditions, and when the rules change, those conditions may change as well.

Is your HS Code still correct?

The first thing to check is whether the HS code you are using for export matches the classification of your goods in Indonesia. Sometimes, the HS code used in Thailand may not match exactly at the destination, and when import regulations are adjusted, some items may be moved to a category requiring additional licenses.

If you are unsure whether your current HS code is correct, you should check with your Indonesian counterparty or their customs consultant before proceeding. Do not let the goods pass through until they arrive at the port and only then discover there is a problem.

Import licenses and certification documents: Something many people overlook.

Indonesia has an import permit system called API (Angka Pengenal Importir), which importers must have before they can receive goods. In addition, some types of goods require further certification documents, such as certificates from relevant agencies in Thailand or product standard certifications from the source.

A common problem is that Thai exporters prepare all the necessary documents on their side but fail to check if their Indonesian trading partner has all the necessary import licenses. Upon arrival at the port, it turns out the trading partner hasn't renewed their API (Authorized Export Permit) or their license has expired. The goods are then stuck at the port, incurring daily storage costs.

Product and labeling standards: Points of inspection are increasing.

Indonesia has several agencies that oversee product standards, such as BPOM for food and cosmetics, and BSN for industrial standards. Products that fall under these categories must be registered or certified before they can be legally imported.

Labeling is equally important. Indonesia mandates that certain types of products must have an Indonesian language (Bahasa Indonesia) label before being sold. If your shipment contains incorrect labels, it may be detained for inspection or required to be returned for corrections, all of which incur costs and time.

Indonesian import regulations: A checklist to check before shipping any goods.

Before booking, shipping, or preparing export documents to Indonesia, please check these items thoroughly:

• The HS code is correct and matches the one used in Indonesia to classify your product. It's not just that it matches what Thailand uses for export.
• The end-partner has an import license (API) that has not yet expired. And it covers the types of products you send.
• Does your product need to be registered with BPOM or a related agency? If yes, you must have the registration number before sending.
• The product label is in Indonesian and contains all the information required by law. This includes the product name, ingredients, expiration date, and importer's name.
• All export documents are complete. This includes invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and other certification documents required for that type of product.
• Our trading partner is ready to handle the customs procedures on the Indonesian side. There is a shipping company or customs agent handling it.
• Check if your product falls into a category that requires special inspection. For example, products that must pass SNI inspection (Indonesian standard).

The risks that arise if the documents are incomplete.

Many people think that if goods are held up at the port, they just have to wait for clearance before being sent on. However, in reality, the costs involved are not insignificant. Storage fees at Indonesian ports are high, and if goods are held up for weeks, the figures can be much higher than anticipated.

In addition to warehousing fees, there are also fees for document corrections, additional inspections, and in some cases, if the goods do not meet standards, they may have to be returned or destroyed. This means a loss of both the goods and the transportation costs already paid.

There's also the issue of sales cycles. If goods arrive later than agreed upon with your supplier, it can negatively impact the business relationship, especially if your products have expiration dates or are seasonal.

Talk to your end-customer before, not after, booking the container.

Before every shipment, the first thing you should do is have a clear discussion with your Indonesian partner about whether they are ready to accept your goods under the new regulations. Do they have all the necessary documents and licenses? And do they have a shipping agent or customs representative familiar with the new rules to handle the process?

Communicating with your business partners before booking shipping significantly reduces risk compared to rushing into delivery and trying to resolve problems later. Issues that arise at Indonesian ports are often difficult and take longer to resolve than expected.

Plan your delivery schedule to ensure you have sufficient buffer time.

When import regulations are initially revised, delays at ports are often greater than usual because both customs officials and importers need to adjust to the new procedures. If you have orders to ship to Indonesia during this period, you should plan for extra buffer time compared to normal. Do not calculate delivery times using the same estimates as before the regulation changes.

If you are looking for more information about exporting to ASEAN. SME SHIPPING It is one of the leading sources of information that compiles trade signals and international market regulations for Thai exporters.

Things remain unclear and need to be monitored.

The information currently available is only a general overview of the regulatory changes and does not yet specify details by product or category. Therefore, if you are exporting specific product groups such as food, cosmetics, or industrial goods, you should check directly with the relevant authorities in both Thailand and Indonesia before concluding how your products will be affected.

Regularly monitoring announcements from the Indonesian Customs Authority (Bea Cukai) and BPOM will help you stay informed of any changes that directly affect your goods, rather than waiting until your goods are stuck at the port.

What should be done now is not to wait for everything to be clear before starting, but to check the documents and discuss everything clearly with the end-user before booking the next shipment. Preventing risks in advance is better than incurring costs after the goods arrive at the port.

Source: DITP / Thai Trade Center in Jakarta, June 19, 2026.

If you're considering exporting automotive parts to Germany right now, the first thing to understand is that this market isn't static. Cars on German roads still require maintenance parts, but long-term demand is shifting away from internal combustion engine parts to EV components, thermal management systems, and products related to Software Defined Vehicles. Thai suppliers who are well-prepared will have a place in this market, but if they're unprepared, they may waste time and money on products that don't meet standards or the requirements of the end distributors.

Why is the German automotive parts market attractive to Thai SMEs?

Germany is one of the largest automotive markets in Europe, and its aftermarket is significant. The average age of existing vehicles is increasing every year, meaning the demand for spare parts and maintenance remains high. At the same time, Germany is one of the fastest-growing countries in Europe in the transition to EVs. This creates a two-tiered market: the first still requires original equipment parts for existing ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, and the second, rapidly growing tier comprises EV-related components such as sensors, chassis parts, thermal management, and vehicle software-connected systems.

For Thai SMEs that already manufacture or supply automotive parts, this is a signal they should understand: which product segment do they belong to, and whether that segment is growing or shrinking in the German market? Choosing the wrong segment from the start will result in wasted investments in standards, documentation, and finding distributors.

Market signals you should understand before making export decisions.

The German aftermarket still buys original equipment parts, but if you look at the trends over the next 3-5 years, new revenue is flowing towards products connected to EVs and digital systems. Growing components in Germany include thermal management systems for EV batteries, various sensors used in ADAS and autonomous driving systems, chassis parts designed specifically for EV platforms, and components connected to Software Defined Vehicles that require OTA software updates.

Meanwhile, legacy parts such as internal combustion engine components, exhaust systems, clutches, and traditional transmission parts will remain in short-term demand, but margins and volumes may gradually decrease as more ICE vehicles are replaced by EVs in the German fleet. Therefore, if you plan to export, you should clearly consider which cycle your products are in and plan your portfolio accordingly.

EU and German standards: The impenetrable barrier before shipment.

This is an area where many Thai SMEs often underestimate the importance of quality. Certain automotive parts in Germany must meet standards stipulated in the Official Journal of the EU (OJEU) and specific German regulations, which are stricter than general standards in some cases. Product groups with clear requirements include brake pads and friction materials, which must pass ECE or EU type-approval testing; safety glass, which requires marking and certification according to ECE R43; powertrain and drivetrain components, which must meet OEM specifications; and tires, which have EU tyre labeling regulations.

If your product falls into one of these categories, having a certificate or test report from a recognized laboratory in Europe is not optional. It's a basic requirement that the German distributor will ask for during the initial discussion. If you don't have these documents, sending samples without compliance documentation could waste time for both parties.

Exporting automotive parts to Germany: Things to check before shipping.

Before you begin negotiations with distributors or prepare your first shipment, there are several points you should check thoroughly.

• HS code of the product:Automotive parts have hundreds of HS codes. Incorrect classification can lead to incorrect import tariff rates or incomplete documentation required by German customs. It is advisable to check with an experienced freight forwarder or customs broker specializing in automotive goods before shipping.
• EU type-approval and ECE regulations:Check which regulation your product falls under in the OJEU or ECE framework and whether you have the correct certification documents.
• Declaration of Conformity (DoC):For components subject to EU directives, such as the Machinery Directive or the Low Voltage Directive, a Documentation of Purchase (DoC) is required before they can be sold in the EU market.
• Test reports from accredited laboratories:The testing laboratory must be accredited by an EU-recognized accreditation body. Test results from laboratories in Thailand that lack international recognition may not be sufficient.
• REACH and RoHS compliance:If your product contains chemical or electronic components, you must also check REACH regulations and the RoHS directive, especially for EV components with battery materials or electronic components.
• Distributor fit and target segment:Germany has several levels of aftermarket distributors, ranging from national distributors to regional workshops. You should check which segment your product is best suited for and whether the distributor you're talking to actually has a network that covers that target group.
• Automotive fairs in Germany:Automechanika Frankfurt is the world's largest aftermarket trade fair. If you're planning to enter the German market, attending or visiting this event will give you a better understanding of the market landscape and help you find distributors more effectively than sending cold emails.

The risks that often arise if these steps are skipped.

I've seen many Thai SMEs shipping goods to Europe encounter problems at the port of entry due to incomplete documentation or goods not meeting the required standards at the destination. The costs incurred aren't just the shipping fees; they also include storage costs at the port, re-export fees, or in some cases, destruction costs, and damage to the relationships with distributors that you've spent time building.

For automotive parts, particularly those related to safety such as brakes, glass, and tires, German customs and the EU's market surveillance agencies have the authority to detain and recall goods from the market if they are found not to meet specified standards. This risk is not just theory; it is a real problem for suppliers from many countries, including those in Asia.

How to calculate the HS code for automotive parts shipped to Germany.

The HS codes for automotive parts are complex because the same product can be classified in multiple ways depending on its material, function, and whether it's an OEM or aftermarket part. For example, brake pads might be in HS 6813 if they are friction materials, or in HS 8708 if they are classified as parts and accessories for motor vehicles. Incorrect classification can lead to incorrect import tariffs under the EU Common External Tariff and may affect the eligibility for GSP or EUSFTA benefits if those agreements cover that product group.

Before actual shipment, it is necessary to obtain binding tariff information (BTI) from the German Customs Department or request a pre-classification ruling from the German customs authority to ensure that the HS code used is correct and to reduce the risk of re-classification at the destination, which may result in additional taxes or goods being detained.

Selecting a distributor and preparing to enter the German market.

Germany has a complex aftermarket distribution network with large buying groups such as ATR, Coparts, and GVA, which include workshops and parts retailers. If you want to enter this market, understanding the structure of the distribution network beforehand will help you choose an entry point that suits the size of your business and product volume.

SMEs just starting out in the German market often begin with regional distributors or specialist importers focusing on Asian products, before expanding to national distributors once they have a sufficient track record and volume. Preparing a product catalog with clear specifications, cross-references with OEM part numbers, and complete compliance documentation will significantly speed up negotiations with distributors, as German distributors don't have time to wait for you to gather the documents later.

If your product is in the EV components category, what additional preparations should you make?

EV components have additional requirements that differ from traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) parts, particularly regarding battery safety standards. These standards reference UN 38.3 for transport and IEC 62133 or relevant EU standards for operation. If your product is thermal management components, you must check that the material specification and temperature rating match the requirements of the EV platform being used at the destination.

Furthermore, some EV components may require CE marking and a conformity assessment procedure before being sold in the EU market. This can take more time and expense than typical ICE parts. It's crucial to plan your timeline to include the certification process, rather than starting with finding a distributor first and then pursuing certification later, as distributors will inquire about this from the outset.

A framework for making investment decisions regarding the German market.

If you're considering investing in certification, finding distributors, and arranging logistics for the German market, consider whether it's worthwhile. Use this framework to help you decide.

First, is your product in a segment where the German market is growing or shrinking? If it's conventional ICE parts, the market still exists, but the growth window is narrowing. If it's EV components, the market is opening up, but the barrier to entry is higher. Second, do you have, or can you, obtain the necessary compliance documents within a realistic timeline? If product certification takes 12-18 months, you need to plan your cash flow to support that period. Third, do you have, or are you looking for, a partner in Germany who truly understands the aftermarket, not just a typical trading company? Because the German automotive aftermarket has a unique ecosystem that requires specialized expertise.

For more information regarding logistics planning and documentation for exporting to Europe, you can find additional information at:smeshipping.comThis includes information about international transportation for Thai SMEs.

The German automotive parts market is not a closed market for Thai SMEs, but it requires serious preparation, especially regarding compliance and selecting products that align with market trends. If you prepare correctly from the start, the opportunity to build long-term relationships with German distributors is real.

Source: DITP / Office of International Trade Promotion, Berlin, June 2026.

If you manufacture children's products in Thailand and are looking for a new market with room for high-quality goods, Brazil is a very interesting option. Exporting children's products to Brazil isn't just about price or design; it's about preparing correctly before the goods leave the factory. To successfully export children's products to Brazil, you should plan the documentation, standards, and taxes alongside the sales process from the very beginning.

Why is Brazil attractive for Thai children's products?

Brazil is a large market in South America where parents are willing to pay more for products that are safe, meet high standards, and are made from reliable materials. Products in high demand in this market include BPA-free baby bottles and feeding equipment, lightweight car seats and strollers, cribs and baby furniture made from rubberwood, and the increasingly popular natural or organic products.

What gives Thai products a strong position in this market isn't competing on price with China or local producers, but rather on materials, safety, and sustainability. If your product addresses these aspects, you truly have a place in Brazil's premium market. However, before getting there, there are several things to understand for entrepreneurs planning their first export of children's products to Brazil. Having importers who understand Inmetro and ANVISA can significantly reduce the need for document revisions.

Exporting children's products to Brazil: Standards that must be met before they can be sold.

This is something many people overlook. Brazil has a very strict certification system. Many categories of children's products must be certified by Inmetro, Brazil's metrology and standards agency, before they can be sold through official retail channels. If a product does not have the correct Inmetro mark, importers will not be able to bring it into legitimate stores, supermarkets, or online platforms.

Besides Inmetro, certain product categories, particularly those related to child nutrition or products that come into direct contact with children's bodies, are also regulated by ANVISA, the Brazilian equivalent of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, before selecting products for export, you should check whether those products require Inmetro, ANVISA, or both.

Portuguese-language labels: A small detail that can cause your package to be held up at customs.

Brazil uses Portuguese, not Spanish. All product labels must be written entirely in Portuguese and must include complete information such as the name and address of the importer in Brazil, details of ingredients or materials, safety warnings such as age range or precautions, and necessary information according to the product type.

If the labels are incomplete, or still in English or Thai, the goods may be held at customs or returned, meaning you'll lose shipping costs, taxes, and time without making any sales. Therefore, preparing the labels should be done in collaboration with the importer in Brazil before producing the first batch.

Brazilian landing taxes: Why are landing costs higher than expected?

Brazil has a complex and multi-layered import tax system. The costs you need to calculate aren't just shipping and the product price; they also include import duties II (Imposto de Importação), excise duties IPI (Imposto sobre Produtos Industrializados), state-level value-added tax (ICMS), and PIS/COFINS, which are social taxes levied on imported goods.

When all taxes are combined, the actual landed cost can be 60-100% higher than the CIF price you export, depending on the type of goods and the HS code used. This means that if you ship goods at a CIF price of $10, the importer may have to bear actual costs of $16-20 before they can set a selling price. Therefore, calculating the landed cost correctly from the start will help both you and the importer set realistic prices and avoid future losses.

HS Code for children's products: Choosing the wrong one will affect the tax for the entire lot.

The HS codes used for children's products are categorized into several groups, depending on the type of product, such as toys, feeding equipment, children's furniture, or children's clothing. Each HS code has different II and IPI tariff rates, and some groups may require additional certificates before importation.

A common risk is using an HS code that doesn't accurately reflect the product, which can result in additional taxes or further inspections at customs. It's crucial to work with the importer or customs broker in Brazil to verify the correct HS code before issuing invoices and packing lists for the first batch.

Exporting children's products to Brazil: A checklist to prepare for shipment.

Before you decide to ship your first batch of goods to Brazil, there are several things you should check.

• The correct HS code— Confirm with the importer or customs broker in Brazil that the HS code used matches the actual characteristics of the goods and that the expected tariff rate is correct.
• Inmetro certificate— Check if your product is in the category that requires Inmetro certification, and if so, have you started the certification process?
• Directed by ANVISA.— If the product comes into contact with a child's body or is related to nutrition, check whether ANVISA registration is required before import.
• Portuguese label— The label must include importer information in Brazil, material details, safety warnings, and other information as required by law, all in Portuguese.
• Calculating landed costs— Include II, IPI, ICMS, PIS/COFINS in the actual cost calculation before setting the CIF price, so that importers can set realistic selling prices in the market.
• Importers who understand the children's product market.— Importers in Brazil should have experience specifically with children's products, not just general goods, because Inmetro and ANVISA regulations have specific details for each product group.
• Complete set of export documents.— Invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and all relevant standard certification documents must be prepared before the goods leave the port.

How products are priced and positioned in Brazil.

Because of high landed costs, competing on price with Chinese products or local manufacturers in Brazil is not an advantage for Thai products. What allows Thai products to stand out in this market is their clear selling points, such as BPA-free, natural rubberwood, organic, or meeting international standards that Brazilian parents value.

If you position your product in the premium segment, parents willing to pay extra for their children's safety won't base their decision primarily on price, but on product reliability. Therefore, having comprehensive certifications, correct labeling, and a clear story about the materials used will help Thai products truly gain a place in this market.

Risks you should know before deciding to enter the Brazilian market.

This market is not easy to enter. The Inmetro certification process is time-consuming and costly. If your goods are rejected at customs due to incomplete labeling or incorrect certification, you may face return shipping or destruction costs that are far greater than you anticipate.

Furthermore, Brazil's tax system is complex and requires local expertise. If you don't yet have an importer specializing in the Brazilian children's product market, starting with large shipments might be an unnecessary risk. It's better to begin by finding the right importer first, and then plan your first shipment together.

How to prepare documents and shipping routes to avoid delays along the way.

Shipping from Thailand to Brazil by sea takes approximately 30-45 days, depending on the route and the destination port in Brazil. During this time, all documents must be ready before the goods arrive at the port. Incomplete documents will result in customs detention and additional daily charges.

The documents that must be prepared before shipment include: a Commercial Invoice specifying complete product details, a Packing List matching the actual goods, a Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, a Certificate of Origin from an accepted Brazilian authority, and standard certification documents such as Inmetro or ANVISA, depending on the type of goods. If you are unsure which documents are required for which type of goods, you can find more information about preparing export documents here.smeshipping.com

In summary, this is for SMEs considering this market.

Brazil is a market with real demand for high-quality children's products from Thailand, but it's not an easy market to enter without proper preparation. The main risks lie in strict regulations, high taxes, and the risk of product rejection if documentation or labeling is incomplete.

If you are planning to export children's products to Brazil and have products with clear selling points such as safety, natural materials, or international standards, and are willing to invest time in the certification and documentation process, the Brazilian market is a direction worth exploring. However, if you don't yet have an experienced importer in Brazil and haven't checked Inmetro with ANVISA for your own products, you should start there first, not by booking container shipments.

Source: DITP / Thai Trade Center in Sao Paulo (Brazil), June 22, 2026

If you're currently shipping canned pineapples to Mexico, here's the story... Mexican canned pineapple The anti-dumping tariff measures are not just news you read and then forget, because the $0.93 per kilogram figure announced by Mexico immediately impacts your actual costs, starting with the next shipment you're about to export.

Why is this measure stricter than normal import taxes?

Normal import duties are known in advance, and the selling price is already calculated from the start. However, anti-dumping duties arise from an investigation process that takes time and are announced after many sales contracts have already been signed. This means that if you had a price contract with an importer in Mexico before this measure took effect, the increased cost of $0.93 per kilogram might fall solely on you if the contract did not clearly specify the conditions for bearing the tax burden.

Mexico stated that an investigation found that the import price of canned pineapples from Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia was significantly lower than domestic prices, impacting domestic production, employment, and income. This wasn't an ad hoc decision, but the result of a weighty legal process and measures with a five-year timeframe, meaning there's no way to wait for the process to pass and then return to original prices anytime soon.

Who has been affected by this measure?

The first group most clearly affected are exporters of canned pineapples who already have trading partners in Mexico, whether through direct shipments or via agents in the US or third countries before distribution into Mexico. The second group includes exporters of other processed fruit products that are not yet affected, but it's worth monitoring whether Mexico is likely to expand the investigation to related product groups. The third group consists of exporters planning to enter the Mexican market in the next 1-2 years, as the increased landed costs will drastically alter their price competitiveness.

Data from DITP indicates that Thailand was Mexico's leading importer of canned pineapples in early 2026. This figure shows that Thai products hold a significant share of this market, meaning the measures would truly impact export volumes, not just be figures on paper. This is especially important for Thai SMEs operating in this market. Mexican canned pineapple Therefore, it is advisable to review the costs and contracts before shipping the next batch.

Anti-dumping taxes on Mexican canned pineapples: Things to check before shipping the next batch.

Before you decide to continue supplying, stop supplying, or adjust prices, there are several points you need to carefully check. Making decisions without complete information may result in you bearing unnecessary costs or losing business partners unnecessarily.

• The actual HS Code used:Check if your goods match the tariff codes specified by Mexico in its measures. Sometimes, slightly different processed goods may have different HS Codes and may not be covered by these measures. It's advisable to have your customs broker in Mexico confirm this before shipping.
• New landed cost structure:Recalculate the total cost, incorporating 0.93 USD/kg into the landed cost, and see if the remaining margin still makes exporting worthwhile.
• Tax liability conditions in the contract:Check if the current contract specifies who is responsible for anti-dumping duties. If it doesn't specify, discuss this with the importer immediately before the goods arrive at the port.
• Incoterms conditions used:If you sell under CIF or DDP terms, the tax burden may fall directly on you. You need to review whether the Incoterms you are currently using are still appropriate for the new situation.
• Certificate of Origin:Verify that the CO (Copyright Certificate) issued is correct, matches the country of origin, and is in a format acceptable to Mexican customs, as customs' anti-dumping procedures often involve stricter scrutiny of origin documents than usual.
• Communicating with importers about changing costs:If you want to maintain your trading partners in Mexico, you need to discuss price adjustments or the sharing of retaliatory duties openly and frankly before misunderstandings about costs damage the relationship.
• Alternative markets for canned pineapple:If margins in Mexico become too thin to be worthwhile, it's advisable to start evaluating other markets that don't yet have anti-dumping measures against Thai products, such as markets in Europe, the Middle East, or Japan, in order to diversify risk.

How much does the landed cost change, if calculated accurately?

Consider these simple numbers. If you ship 10,000 kilograms of canned pineapples to Mexico, the increased customs duty is $9,300 per lot, or approximately 330,000 baht, depending on the exchange rate. This figure doesn't include any additional costs that may arise from extra documentation checks or delays at the port if Mexican customs require further verification.

For SMEs with low margins per lot, this $9,300 USD figure can instantly turn previously profitable exports into break-even or even losses. That's why it's crucial to recalculate before deciding whether or not to export, rather than waiting for the goods to arrive at the destination port to discuss with importers, especially for those already marketing their products. Mexican canned pineapple In reality, this cost review is unavoidable.

HS Codes that require special attention.

Canned pineapple has several customs tariff codes depending on whether it's pineapple chunks, mashed pineapple, pineapple in syrup, or pineapple in juice. The HS Codes that Mexico specifies in its anti-dumping measures may not cover all sub-headings. Therefore, if you export multiple forms of canned pineapple, you must check each tariff code individually; it's not a general assumption that everything is covered.

Verifying the correct HS Code should be done in conjunction with an experienced customs broker, especially in the Mexican market, as tariff interpretations may vary from country to country. Using the wrong HS Code can result in either higher or lower taxes, posing a risk. For more information on export planning, please refer to general information resources.smeshipping.com

Signs that the Mexican market is undergoing a structural change.

The five-year anti-dumping measures are not a short-term signal. They indicate that Mexico has decided to seriously protect its domestic industries, and the ongoing investigation shows that this was planned for some time, not a sudden decision.

For Thai exporters looking at the Mexican market long-term, this is a signal that competing solely on price may no longer be a sustainable strategy. If you want to stay in this market, you may need to consider creating added value, developing your brand, or finding distribution channels that don't rely solely on price competition.

If you still want to export to Mexico, what preparations should you make?

If, after calculating the landed cost, there's still some margin left, and you want to maintain your relationship with your Mexican partners, there are a few things you should prepare before shipping the next batch.

Firstly, the documentation must be more complete and accurate than before because Mexican customs often inspect goods from countries under anti-dumping measures. This includes commercial invoices that must show the true price, packing lists that must match the actual items, and certificates of origin that must be issued correctly according to the specified format.

The second point is that communication with importers must be clear about who is responsible for the customs duties. If you agree on a new price, there must be written evidence, not just phone conversations or LINE messages. Because if a dispute arises later, these documents are what you will need to protect yourself.

The third point is the importance of continuously monitoring the progress of the measures. Because anti-dumping measures undergo a review process, the figures or conditions may change within the five-year period. Regularly monitoring information from DITP and related agencies will help you make timely decisions.

Review the reserve market before all the margin disappears.

Thai canned pineapples are renowned in the global market, and there are other markets that do not yet have anti-dumping measures against Thai products. If you have production capacity that previously exported to Mexico, you should start assessing alternative markets now, not wait until the first batch after the measures result in losses.

Attractive markets for Thai canned pineapples currently include Europe, which still has demand for high-quality products; the Middle East, with its growing middle-class consumer base; and East Asia, where the demand for processed foods continues to expand. Diversifying markets isn't about abandoning Mexico, but rather reducing the risk of over-reliance on a single market for those still pursuing this strategy. Mexican canned pineapple Furthermore, having a backup market would greatly help to mitigate the impact.

Source: DITP / Thai Trade Center in Mexico City (Mexico), June 22, 2026