Online shopping in Thailand could become considerably more expensive in 2027 after the government approved import duties of up to 30% on goods purchased from overseas retailers. The decision could affect millions of consumers, including expatriates who regularly order electronics, clothing, household products and other items from international shopping platforms.
Thailand’s Cabinet approved the changes on 10 November 2026 as part of an effort to protect local businesses from competition with low-cost foreign imports. According to a detailed report by Next Step Hua Hin, the new rules could affect overseas purchases made through popular shopping platforms such as Lazada, Shopee, Temu, Shein and TikTok Shop.
Not Every Online Purchase Will Face a 30% Tax
Despite the headline figure, the new measure does not introduce a blanket 30% tax on all online purchases.
Import duties will depend on the type of product and its classification under Thailand’s customs tariff system. Some goods could face duties of up to 30%, while others will attract lower rates.
Products such as headphones, sunglasses, mobile phone accessories, handbags and certain electronic goods are among the categories that could become more expensive.
The revised rules specifically target goods imported through international e-commerce channels, including express delivery services and international postal shipments.
Products already stocked in Thailand will not automatically be affected in the same way.
Import Duty Plus VAT Could Push Prices Even Higher
Thailand already applies 7% VAT to imported goods, and import duty is generally included when calculating the VAT payable.
For example, an imported product with a customs value of 1,000 baht and an applicable import duty of 30% could attract 300 baht in duty plus 91 baht in VAT.
That would bring the total to 1,391 baht, before any additional handling or clearance fees.
In this example, the combined import duty and VAT would add 39.1% to the original customs value.
However, actual charges will depend on the product classification, customs valuation and applicable regulations.
How Will Thailand’s New Import Duties Affect Hua Hin Expats?
Foreign residents in Hua Hin, Cha-am and Pranburi who frequently order products from overseas could face higher costs, particularly for electronics, replacement parts, specialist equipment and other goods that are difficult to purchase locally.
The government says the changes will help Thai small and medium-sized businesses compete more fairly with overseas sellers.
The Customs Department estimates that the revised arrangements could generate approximately 6.3 billion baht in additional government revenue.
The new rules are expected to take effect in early 2027, although the exact implementation date has not yet been confirmed.
According to the government’s announcement, the measure will become effective 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette.
For consumers, the message is clear: check where products are shipped from, compare prices with local Thai retailers and confirm whether import duties and VAT are included before placing an order.