Thailand is the toughest market in Southeast Asia for used passenger cars — and one of the easiest for **new EVs**, thanks to the China–ASEAN free trade agreement.
## The restriction to understand first
Used passenger car imports into Thailand are heavily restricted and generally require a Department of Foreign Trade licence issued in narrow cases (returning residents, specific categories). For commercial volume, the practical route is **new units and EVs**, not used stock.
## Form E is the whole game
With a valid **Certificate of Origin Form E** under ACFTA, qualifying vehicles manufactured in China can enter at **0% import duty** instead of up to 30%. The certificate must be issued in China against the actual shipment, with matching invoice, consignee and HS code. We issue Form E on request — say so before the invoice is finalised, because it cannot be corrected retroactively without a re-issue procedure.
## Taxes
- Import duty up to 30%, or **0%** with a qualifying Form E - Excise tax based on CO2 emissions — EVs are taxed at a very low rate - VAT 7% - Interior Tax at 10% of the excise amount
## Compliance
- **Right-hand drive only** - Euro IV and above - **TISI** certification, then Land Transport Department registration inspection
## Documents
Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin (Form E), TISI Certificate, Import Licence where applicable.
## Shipping
Short container service from South China — typically 12–18 days sailing, which is the fastest lane we run. Clearance is 5–10 working days with a complete file.
## Practical advice
If you are building an EV business in Thailand, focus on RHD, CCS2-compatible models with Form E eligibility confirmed at the factory. Ask us for the specific VIN''s origin criteria before you place the order.