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.