Category: Trade Radar

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

If you export food to North America, or are thinking of starting one, what will be clear in 2026 is... Protein and fiber foods Protein and fiber are no longer confined to the health section of supermarkets; they're becoming the universal language American consumers use to choose products, whether it's snacks, breakfast bars, bagels, or in-dose treats. Buyers are increasingly focusing on the gram counts of protein and fiber on the packaging before making a decision, rather than just considering taste or price. This trend is being seen in major brands like PepsiCo, Frito-Lay, Dave's Killer Bread, and RxBar, all shifting their products in the same direction, making protein and fiber the primary selling point, rather than just an added benefit.

Why is this signal important for Thai SMEs?

If global brands are still adapting their products to clearly speak the language of protein and fiber, it means buyers importing from Thailand are looking for the same thing. In 2026, the North American market won't be asking where your product comes from, but how clearly you explain its nutritional value, whether it's repeatable, and whether the claims on the label meet consumer expectations. For Thai SMEs producing ready-to-eat meals, healthy snacks, baked goods, or other snacks using Thai ingredients, this is the time to consider whether your products are ready to speak that language—in terms of recipes, labeling, and communication with buyers.

What do protein-fiber foods in demand in the North American market look like?

What the North American market is looking for isn't just products high in protein or fiber, but products that... Communicate the claim clearly on the packaging. And it's understandable within three seconds of a consumer picking up a product from the shelf. Clear examples include breakfast bars that state "20g Protein" on the packaging, snacks that clearly state "5g Fiber per serving," or bagels that highlight "high fiber, clean ingredients" in a single line. Furthermore, the concept of healthy convenience is crucial: the product must be easy to eat, portable, require no additional preparation, and provide clearly explainable nutritional value. If your Thai product meets both of these criteria, that's a good starting point for further development.

Thai raw materials that have potential in this group.

Thailand has many interesting raw materials for functional foods, such as mung beans, red beans, brown rice, coconut, pandan leaves, and various indigenous grains that are naturally high in protein or fiber. The problem isn't the raw materials themselves, but whether the finished products made from these materials are communicated in a language that the end market understands. If you make a snack from mung beans but the label only states the product name and weight without clear protein or fiber figures, an American buyer will have no way of knowing if your product meets their needs. Therefore, developing products for this market must start with nutritional analysis and translating that information into marketable language on the packaging.

Things to be careful about regarding labeling and claims before exporting.

This is an area many SMEs often overlook or think they can do later. The truth is, using terms like “high protein,” “good source of fiber,” or “excellent source of fiber” on product labels in the United States has clear FDA regulations. For example, a product claiming to be “high fiber” must contain at least 5 grams of fiber per serving. Using these claims without prior verification could lead to problems at import customs or product rejection by buyers. Therefore, before printing labels or designing packaging, always have a US food regulatory expert review every claim.

How does the Nutrition Facts Panel for the US market differ from the Thai label?

Nutrition labels in the US use the FDA-mandated Nutrition Facts Panel format, which differs from Thai nutrition labels in format, font size, display of Daily Values (DVs), and the order of nutrients. If you ship products to the US using labels designed for the Thai market, they may be detained at customs or you may have to pay for relabeling at the destination, which is significantly more expensive than getting the labels right from the start. Additionally, if your product contains plant-based or grain ingredients unfamiliar to the American market, a short description should be provided to help consumers understand what the ingredient is and its benefits.

What are the differences between Clean Label and Functional Food, and which approach should SMEs choose?

The term "clean label" refers to products with minimal ingredients, easy to read and understand, and free of complex-sounding chemicals. "Functional food," on the other hand, refers to products that provide measurable health benefits, such as being high in protein, high in fiber, or aiding digestion. These two perspectives are not contradictory, and the North American market in 2026 will demand both: products that provide real benefits and ingredients that consumers trust. For Thai SMEs that already use natural ingredients, the clean label aspect could be a strong point that can be leveraged immediately if communicated correctly. However, if they want to also focus on functional food, they must have nutritional information that has been analyzed in a reliable laboratory before using it on the label.

Checklist before shipping protein and fiber-rich food products to the North American market.

If you are preparing items in this category, check these items before proceeding.

• Nutritional analysis conducted in a certified laboratory. To ensure that the protein and fiber figures on the label are reliable and accurate in accordance with the law.
• Verify every claim against FDA criteria. Before printing phrases like "high protein" or "good source of fiber" on packaging, there are minimum gram requirements that must be met.
• Design the Nutrition Facts Panel to comply with the FDA format. It's not about using Thai nutrition labels and translating them into English.
• Prepare documentation detailing the ingredients and sources of the raw materials. Because some buyers require ingredient traceability, especially in the functional food sector.
• Check whether the product needs to be registered with the FDA before importing. Food products imported into the United States must go through a Prior Notice process, and manufacturing plants must be registered with the FDA.
• Test communicating the claim with a real target audience. Before mass production, consider that words that sound good in Thai may not always resonate with American consumers in English.
• Check if the packaging is suitable for long-distance shipping. Products emphasizing a clean label often use thin or eco-friendly packaging, which must be tested to ensure it is durable enough for ocean shipping.

Buyers in this market look for things beyond the product itself.

Buyers importing health food products in North America don't just look at a single product, but also at whether the supplier delivers consistently, has complete documentation, and how quickly issues with labeling or claims are resolved. Having well-prepared documentation, including up-to-date Certificates of Analysis (COA), ingredient specifications, and allergen declarations, helps simplify the buyer's approval process. Furthermore, if your product has international certifications such as BRC, SQF, or FSSC 22000, it can significantly reduce the buyer's vendor qualification time.

Packaging is an often overlooked aspect of the product.

Popular functional food products in North America often have packaging designed to... Communicate your claim in three seconds. This means that protein and fiber figures must be in an easily visible location, not hidden in the Nutrition Facts table on the back. Furthermore, the color and design of the packaging signal to consumers which category the product belongs to. If the design looks like a generic snack, but you want to place it in the health section, it can create confusion and make the product harder to sell. Investing in packaging that communicates the right message is therefore part of a strategy, not just an additional expense.

This is a market that Thai SMEs should consider entering.

The North American market for functional foods offers multiple channels, from large retail chains like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Target, which have clearly defined health sections, to e-commerce platforms like Amazon and iHerb, where consumers directly search for products using terms like "high protein snack" or "high fiber bar." For newly established SMEs, e-commerce may be a less expensive starting point and allows for market testing. Regardless of the chosen channel, accurate labeling, complete documentation, and consistent product availability are crucial.

If the product isn't ready yet, where should we start?

If you already have a product but are unsure if it's ready for this market, the easiest starting point is to have it nutritionally analyzed to see if the protein and fiber figures match the claims you want to use on the label. If the numbers don't meet the criteria, you still have time to adjust the formula before investing in packaging or marketing. If the figures are acceptable, the next step is to have US food regulatory experts review the claims and label design before contacting buyers or sending product samples. Preparing correctly from the start saves more time and money than trying to fix problems later.

Logistics perspectives you should know.

While market signals primarily focus on product and labeling aspects, logistics should also be planned. Food products shipped to the U.S. must obtain Prior Notice from the FDA before arriving at the port. Furthermore, if the product contains ingredients requiring special inspection, such as certain animal or plant products, there may be additional procedures from the USDA. Choosing a shipping provider experienced in handling food products and familiar with U.S. import procedures will help mitigate the risk of detention or delays at customs. If you are researching food exports to North America, this website... SME SHIPPING This is a comprehensive resource on international transportation for Thai SMEs.

The North American food market in 2026 is clearly indicating that products with clearly stated nutritional information have more opportunities than good products that lack such clarity. If you have a product in the protein-fiber food category, or are developing one in that direction, the next step is to start with accurate nutritional information, legally compliant labeling, and communicating claims that directly address what buyers and consumers are looking for.

Source: DITP / Thai Trade Center in Chicago (USA), June 8, 2026.

If you're already exporting electronic components to Singapore, or thinking of starting, news about Singapore's semiconductor supply chain isn't just macro industry news; it's telling you something about the direction Singaporean buyers are looking and the standards they expect from suppliers in the region, including Thailand.

Singapore isn't just a chip manufacturing hub; it's a center through which everything goes.

Singapore produces approximately 101 TP3T of chips globally and accounts for around 201 TP3T of global semiconductor industry equipment manufacturing capacity. These figures are not only significant in their numerical terms, but they also highlight the comprehensive ecosystem of this industry in Singapore. From R&D and design to wafer manufacturing, assembly, advanced packaging, and chip testing, every stage involves world-class players.

What makes Singapore strong is not the competition in sub-3nm chips, but rather its mature nodes and specialty technologies that demand high reliability, stable manufacturing standards, and clear traceability. Markets using these chips include automotive, consumer electronics, industrial robotics, AI, data centers, and high-speed communications, all of which require components and materials from reliable suppliers in the region.

Where does Thailand stand in this chain?

Thailand has a large manufacturing base for electronics, PCBs, and the automotive sector, resulting in lower production costs than Singapore. It also has factories already producing the components that Singapore needs. This means that if you are in the electronics components, PCB, industrial materials, machinery, industrial packaging, or logistics services business for high-value goods, you may be ideally positioned to be a supplier or partner in the same supply chain that Singapore is expanding into.

Before getting excited, it's important to understand that this is a structural signal, not a waiting buy order. This news indicates the industry's direction, but it doesn't say there are customers in Singapore waiting to buy from you. This difference is crucial because it determines how you should prepare.

Exporting electronic components to Singapore: Things to check before shipping.

If you're considering exporting electronic components to Singapore, or expanding into the semiconductor supply chain in that market, there are things to prepare before actually shipping the goods, because buyers in this industry have much stricter standards than in the general market.

• Certificate of Origin— Singapore utilizes several FTAs, including the ASEAN-Australia-NZ FTA and the CSFTA. You need to check which agreement your goods qualify under and whether the Certificate of Origin (CO) issued is of the correct type.
• Product standards— Electronic components supplied into the semiconductor supply chain often must meet IPC, ISO, or buyer-specific standards. It's crucial to clarify these requirements with the buyer before manufacturing.
• Traceability and Lot Control— Buyers in this industry want to be able to track which batch a part came from, when it was manufactured, and where the raw materials came from. If your traceability system isn't ready, this is the first thing you need to address.
• Packaging for high-value goods.— This type of product requires packaging that protects against ESD (Electrostatic Discharge), moisture, and impact during transport. If the packaging does not meet standards, the product may be rejected at its destination.
• Customs documents (HS Code and Invoice)— Electronic components have multiple HS Codes, and they must be specified correctly because the tariff rates and destination requirements depend on the HS Code used. The Commercial Invoice must include complete product details as required by Singapore Customs.
• Communicating with the buyer before shipping.— In this industry, buyers typically have an approved vendor list and a supplier qualification process that takes time. Discussions should start early, not after an order has been placed.
• Cargo insurance during transit.— High-value goods should be insured to cover damage from both transportation and ESD. Check to see if your existing policy covers this type of goods.

The risks that cannot be overlooked when shipping technology products to high-standard markets.

Singapore is a market with strict standards, and buyers in the semiconductor supply chain have very high expectations regarding quality consistency. If your first batch meets the standards but subsequent batches differ even slightly, the buyer may immediately remove you from their Approved Vendor List, and getting back on track takes much longer than maintaining the original relationship.

Another thing to be careful about is the lead time for documentation. In the technology industry, buyers often require complete documentation before the goods arrive at the port, not afterward. If the documentation is incomplete or incorrect, the goods may be held at customs. In the case of electronic components that buyers need for their production lines, delays of even 2-3 days can significantly impact business relationships.

Logistics planning is essential before shipping high-value goods.

Singapore is a highly efficient logistics hub, but that doesn't mean shipping goods there is always easy, especially high-value items that require special care during transit. This includes temperature control, ESD protection, and careful handling at every point of movement.

If you ship by sea, choose a carrier experienced in handling this type of goods and ensure the containers are clean, free of residue, and have appropriate moisture protection systems. Air shipping is more expensive but offers shorter lead times and lower transit risks, especially for high-value items. When comparing total costs between the two options, consider insurance, risk management, potential damage, and the impact on your relationship with the buyer, not just the freight cost.

For more information on exporting high-value goods to the ASEAN market, you can refer to the preliminary information here.smeshipping.comThis compiles information, routes, and essential knowledge for Thai SMEs.

Standardization and Traceability: Areas where Thai SMEs often miss out in the technology market.

The concept of traceability might sound like something only large factories can handle, but SMEs looking to enter the semiconductor supply chain actually need this system as well. At a minimum, they should be able to trace which raw material batches were used to produce a particular product, what processes it underwent, and where the quality control was performed. Buyers in this industry can request this information at any time.

If your traceability system is still in Excel or on paper, that's not an immediate problem. But if you're serious about entering this market, investing in a better system will help you qualify for buyers faster and reduce the risk of being removed from vendor lists due to documentation issues.

The Singaporean government continues to invest: What does this mean for Thai suppliers?

Singapore has a RIE 2030 plan with a total budget of S$37 billion, including over S$800 million specifically for semiconductors. This figure indicates that the Singaporean government remains committed to maintaining its position in this supply chain, and is not retreating.

For Thai suppliers, this means that the demand for parts, materials, and related services from the region is likely to remain in the medium term. However, it's important to understand that competition in Asia is intensifying, with Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia all trying to enter the same supply chain. Therefore, if you want to compete, you must compete on quality, reliability, and proper documentation, not just price.

Before deciding to expand into this market, you should ask yourself these questions.

News regarding Singapore and its semiconductor supply chain is a positive sign for Thai SMEs in related industries. However, before deciding to invest in this market, there are questions that should be answered first.

Does your product truly meet the needs of this supply chain? Do you have a quality control and traceability system that is acceptable to buyers in this industry? Do you have the resources to maintain quality consistency in the long term? And do you adequately understand the qualification process of buyers in this market? If the answers are unclear, starting by gathering information and talking to potential buyers will help you make better decisions than investing first and then trying to adjust later.

What we should do now is use this news as a framework to review our own readiness. If a buyer from Singapore contacts us today, are you ready to supply them with goods that meet their required standards? If not, that's where we need to start addressing that.

Source: DITP / Thai Trade Center, Singapore, Weekly News, June 15-19, 2026.

Read the original information from DITP.

If you export rice or other agricultural products to the Middle Eastern market and Iran is on your buyer list, there are things you should know before your next shipment leaves the warehouse. Iran is tightening its rice import regulations, including scrutiny of the source, product standards, and batch traceability. This is a signal that directly impacts your exports. Exporting rice to Iran. During this period

Why is Iran tightening its security measures now?

Iran is not tightening controls because it wants to reduce imports, but primarily to protect domestic consumers and support the competitiveness of domestic rice producers. When the government decides to mandate scrutiny of the source and standards of goods at all import channels, it means that items that previously passed through easily may be delayed or rejected if the documentation is incomplete.

For Thai exporters, this isn't just policy news; it's a warning sign that if you continue to use the same documents that have been accepted before, the chances of your goods being held up at Iranian customs are significantly higher than before.

The real risk if the documents are not complete.

The concern isn't just whether the goods will clear customs or not, but the time and costs lost if they are delayed at the destination. Rice is a perishable commodity; if it's held up at the port or requires further inspection, you could face inflated container fees, dissatisfied buyers, and in worse cases, the goods being returned or destroyed.

Another risk is that the scope of the regulations is not yet fully clear. The affected HS codes and specific details of the requirements are not yet fully specified in the currently available resources. This means you need to be even more cautious, and not wait for things to become clear before preparing.

5 things to check before exporting rice to Iran.

If you are preparing to export a batch of rice or other agricultural products to Iran, check this list before booking a container or confirming an order with the buyer.

1. Certificate of Origin — It must be issued by an agency recognized by Iran and clearly state the source, not just the exporting country, but must be traceable back to the lot level or source of production.
2. Product quality and standard certificates — Exported rice should have quality control results from an accredited laboratory, specifying moisture content, impurities, and standards that meet the buyer's requirements or the regulations of the destination.
3. Lot Traceability Information — Iran wants traceability, allowing authorities to verify the origin of each shipment, the processes it underwent, and how it was stored. This documentation is often overlooked but is becoming an increasingly scrutinized point.
4. Phytosanitary Certificate and Hygiene Certificate. — For agricultural products, this document is still required and should be reissued to match the actual shipment batch, not an old version that has been outdated.
5. Confirming to the buyer that this set of documents meets current requirements. — Before shipping the goods, be sure to clarify with the buyer in Iran what additional documents they require under the new regulations. Don't assume the old documents are still acceptable.

Does this only affect rice, or other agricultural products as well?

The current signals focus primarily on rice, but if you export agricultural products or processed foods to Iran, you should monitor whether these same rules will extend to other product types. The policy direction is towards tightening import controls on agricultural products in general, not just rice.

If you ship multiple types of products to the same market, preparing your documentation system now will greatly reduce future complications, rather than having to resolve issues batch by batch once shipments are delayed.

How to think before making decisions for the next batch.

If you are planning to ship rice or agricultural products to Iran during this period, the first question you should ask yourself is: Do the documents you have fully meet the requirements for origin verification and standards? If you can't answer that clearly, that's a sign you need to check before booking a container.

Planning the documentation and standards before shipping isn't complicated, but it needs to be done before, not after, the goods have left the warehouse. For those who need more information on preparing export documentation in general, SME SHIPPING It is also one of the resources that compiles information on international export for Thai SMEs.

What should be done now is to have clear communication with the buyer in Iran, check the existing documentation, and if any gaps are found, resolve them before the goods leave Thailand. Because resolving issues at the destination is always more costly than being prepared from the start.

Source: Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Global Market Insight News, June 18, 2026. Iran tightens rice import regulations: Standard signals and source verification requirements that exporters must check.

If you have a Thai skincare brand in Mexico, or are thinking of entering that market, what's interesting now isn't just that Mexico is buying more cosmetics, but the way consumers there are starting to view skincare differently. Previously, they saw it as just makeup; now they see it as part of their health and wellness routine, and that has significantly changed their purchasing decisions.

For Thai skincare products sold in Mexico, it's crucial to have the product formulas, Spanish-language labels, and all necessary documents ready for initial discussions with the relevant authorities.

If you're considering Thai skincare products in Mexico as a market test, you should start with SKUs that easily describe the ingredients, have complete formula documentation, and labels that importers can actually use.

Why does Mexico view skincare as a wellness center, not just a cosmetic?

Consumers in Mexico are increasingly prioritizing natural ingredients, long-term skin safety, and tangible results over mere scent, color, or attractive packaging. This trend isn't unique to Mexico; it's growing among affluent consumers willing to pay more for products with a clear story behind their ingredients and their origins.

For Thai brands that use herbs, rice, coconut oil, tropical fruits, or other natural extracts, this is a aligned direction because Thai products have a story to tell, a narrative about natural ingredients that can be communicated in a way that the Mexican market is looking for. However, having a good story doesn't guarantee immediate market entry; there are many steps that need to be prepared.

Thai skincare in Mexico: Signs that the market is open, but it's still not easy.

Before you get too excited about this signal, it's important to be frank: the Mexican market is open to imported skincare products, but there are quite specific cosmetic regulations. The regulatory body is COFEPRIS, Mexico's health authority, and there's a registration and ingredient notification system that importers must follow before their products can be sold in the market.

Importers in Mexico will ask about the documentation before deciding whether or not to import your goods. If you don't have the necessary documents ready, the discussion might end there. Experienced importers know that incomplete documentation will definitely cause problems at the destination, and they don't want to take that risk.

Documents to prepare before meeting with the Mexican importer.

This is a common mistake many Thai SMEs make, thinking they can request documents later. In reality, importers in Mexico often request documents during the initial meeting to assess the brand's readiness. Incomplete or late submissions can lead to losing opportunities with that importer.

• Ingredient list (INCI List)— All ingredients must be listed according to international standards, not just the main ingredients.
• Certificate of Free Sale (CFS)— Documentation certifying from an authority in Thailand that this product can be legally sold in the country of origin.
• Safety Data Sheet or Safety Assessment— In some cases, documentation confirming the safety of the product formula requires test results from an accredited laboratory.
• Spanish label— Product labels must be in Spanish and completely state the ingredients, instructions for use, warnings, and importer information in Mexico.
• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)— Documents certifying that the production process meets standards are already available to many factories in Thailand, but they need to be prepared for presentation.
• Product Specification Sheet— Product specifications, shelf life, storage instructions, and other technical information as required by the importer.
• COFEPRIS registration information.— In some cases, the importer will handle the process, but you must prepare all the necessary information and documents for them before they begin.

Spanish-language labels: An area many Thai brands overlook.

Labeling is not just about translation; it's about restructuring information to meet Mexican requirements. A good label must clearly state the product name, ingredients in order, concentration, usage instructions, warnings, expiration date, and the importer's information in Mexico. If the label fails inspection, the product will be held at customs, and you may have to return it for correction, which is a costly and time-consuming process.

It is recommended that before printing the final labels, you have the importer or a consultant familiar with Mexican cosmetics law review the labels first, as correcting labels after printing is significantly more costly than checking them before printing.

Thailand's natural ingredients: A strength that needs to be communicated correctly.

Thai herbs, rice, coconut oil, and tropical fruits are ingredients that the Mexican market is currently interested in. However, communicating about these ingredients must be done carefully. If you make claims without supporting evidence or use terminology that borders on medical claims, the product may be reclassified and subject to a more complex registration process than regular cosmetics.

A safer approach is to tell the story of the ingredients' origins, user experiences in Thai culture, and the tangible results on the skin, without using medical claims. This will help your product go through the process more easily and align with how Mexican consumers want to receive information.

Shipping goods to Mexico: Things to plan before actually shipping.

Mexico is not an easy market for shipping goods compared to neighboring countries. The distances and shipping routes involve passing through many points, whether by sea, through ports in the United States, or directly to ports in Mexico such as Manzanillo or Veracruz. Each route has different delivery times and costs.

For skincare products containing certain ingredients, there may be additional shipping requirements, such as temperature or packaging conditions, that need careful consideration. Damage during transit not only results in financial loss but also damages credibility with the importer. It's advisable to consult with an experienced shipping provider specializing in Thailand-Mexico routes to plan packaging and shipping routes suitable for your product. You can find more information on international shipping here.smeshipping.comFor planning purposes.

Risks you should be aware of before moving forward.

Signals from the Mexican market look positive, but there are still risks to be aware of. Firstly, market information is still quite broad, and there are no clear figures on whether Mexican importers are specifically looking for Thai products. Therefore, attending trade shows or finding reliable importers through trusted channels remains a necessary step.

Secondly, the registration process with COFEPRIS is time-consuming and costly, which importers must bear. This means that importers will only choose brands with a real chance of selling, not every brand they are willing to invest the time and money in registering. Therefore, you need a strong product in terms of quality, story, and price before you can even begin discussions with them.

Thirdly, the volatility of the Mexican peso against the Thai baht can affect costs and profits in the long term. Careful planning regarding pricing and payment methods is crucial before signing contracts with importers.

How to think before deciding to invest in the Mexican market.

If you're evaluating whether to proceed with the Mexican market, first ask yourself: Does your product have a clear and verifiable story about its ingredients? Do you have the necessary documentation requested by the importer readily available and within a reasonable timeframe? And do you have the budget for Spanish-language labeling, testing, and the registration process?

If the majority of your answers are "not ready yet," that doesn't mean this market isn't for you. It means there are still steps to prepare before you can move forward with confidence. It's better to be prepared before talking to importers than to rush in and then have to back out because of incomplete documentation.

Checklist before sending Thai skincare products to Mexico.

• Prepare the INCI List.Ensure all ingredients are present and meet international standards.
• Request Certificate of Free SaleFrom a certifying authority in Thailand.
• Conduct a Safety Assessment.Or have the Safety Data Sheet ready.
• Designing labels in Spanish.Ensure it meets Mexican requirements before printing.
• Prepare GMP CertificateFrom the manufacturing factory.
• Prepare a Product Specification Sheet.Specify the shelf life and storage instructions.
• Understanding the COFEPRIS process.And talk to the importer about which part of the process they will undertake and what you need to prepare.
• Plan transportation routes.And check the packaging requirements for skincare products during long-distance transportation.

The Mexican market presents interesting opportunities for Thai skincare brands using natural ingredients. However, success in this market depends more on the readiness of documentation, labeling, and communication with importers than on the quality of the product itself. If the documentation is incomplete, even the best product won't be able to enter the market.

Always check the price of Thai skincare products sold in Mexico before negotiating. If the documentation or labeling isn't ready, a promising opportunity could turn into rework costs and a longer waiting time.

For Thai skincare SME exporters in Mexico, the focus shouldn't be solely on sales figures, but also on preparing documentation, adhering to standards, and ensuring clear communication with partners before sending actual samples.

Source: DITP