The Commerce Ministry has pledged to address the influx of Chinese products into Thailand, according to Minister Pichai Naripthaphan.
During a statement on Saturday, he indicated that the ministry would prioritize key issues impacting the public, such as the high prices of various goods and the arrival of inexpensive Chinese products, many of which do not comply with consumer safety standards.
He emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of laws, including those pertaining to taxes like value-added tax, corporate income tax, and customs duties. Additionally, the ministry plans to scrutinize the quality of imported goods to ensure they possess certifications from relevant organizations, such as the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Mr. Pichai also mentioned plans to bolster regulations to ensure fair competition and protect consumers by requiring foreign e-commerce companies to register and establish legal entities within Thailand.
In response, the Chinese Embassy in Thailand stated that nearly 80% of China’s exports to Thailand consist of capital and intermediate goods that are vital for local manufacturing and exports.
The “cheap Chinese goods” that have garnered significant public attention encompass daily chemical products, food items, health products, and clothing accessories, making up less than 10% of China’s total exports to Thailand.
Regarding concerns about products missing FDA or TISI certifications, the Chinese government underscored that Chinese businesses and citizens are mandated to adhere strictly to regulations in their international economic dealings. The Chinese Embassy expressed support for the Thai government’s efforts to enhance regulation and rectify any violations.
On the topic of e-commerce platforms, the embassy noted that countries worldwide face challenges in managing and developing cross-border e-commerce, which brings new considerations for international economic and trade cooperation.
“E-commerce reduces the need for commercial intermediaries, lowers transaction costs, and provides consumers with more convenient options. However, it also puts substantial competitive pressure on traditional business models and creates new regulatory and product safety challenges,” the embassy stated.
To effectively navigate these issues, the Chinese government suggested leveraging strengths, addressing weaknesses, maximizing benefits, and minimizing drawbacks to foster economic and social development.
The Chinese side has expressed its readiness to assist Thailand in leveraging new e-commerce platforms to tap into the Chinese market. Furthermore, China seeks to enhance cooperation with Thailand in developing digital capabilities for businesses, sharing best practices in e-commerce market regulation, and jointly exploring new opportunities in the digital age.
