BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s customs authorities are implementing severe measures against criminals involved in cannabis exports and deceptive origin declarations, threatening substantial fines and the loss of trade privileges.
Chief Takes Action with New Penalties
Customs Director Phanthong Loykulnunt confirmed on June 18, 2026, the immediate enforcement of a government directive from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Finance Minister Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas. The primary objective is to halt both illegal cannabis imports and exports.
The focus is particularly on the flourishing cannabis smuggling operations and exporters who falsify the origin of their goods. These new penalties took effect on June 17.
445 Million Baht Seized in Months
The statistics are alarming. Within the current fiscal year of 2026, from October 2025 to May 2026, customs officials intervened in 2,983 cases. They confiscated 35,011 kilograms of cannabis, valued at over 445 million Baht.
The agency reports an unchecked surge in cases. Smuggling thrives because cannabis remains classified as a hard drug in many countries, fetching exorbitant prices.
Seizure Alone Didn’t Deter Anyone
Previously, the process for offenders was straightforward and the risk manageable. When authorities intercepted illegal exports, the merchandise was typically only confiscated. Many smugglers accepted this as a minor loss.
The reason was simple: the high international prices quickly compensated for the occasional loss of a shipment. Customs is now determined to end this zero-risk scenario.
30,000 Baht Fine – Per Kilogram
The new financial equation is punishing. In addition to the permanent forfeiture of the goods, a fine of 30,000 Baht per kilogram of seized cannabis is now imposed. This money goes to the state.
This dual financial blow – no profit and a hefty penalty – aims to permanently deter smugglers from using Thailand as a transit route.
Image Damage for All of Thailand
Authorities are concerned with more than just the profits of criminals. Every illegal cannabis export severely damages Thailand’s international image. Many destination countries impose harsh penalties on such imports, branding Thailand as a source of drugs.
The stricter sanctions are intended to prevent the country from being exploited as a hub for cannabis destined for overseas markets.
500,000 Baht for False “Made in Thailand” Labels
It will be even more costly for exporters who lie about the origin of their goods. Anyone falsely claiming products are “Made in Thailand” when this is untrue must pay 500,000 Baht.
This penalty is just the beginning. Furthermore, all trade privileges will be revoked, and the exporter will forfeit all business advantages.
Fear of Retaliatory Tariffs
For the authorities, the origin lie is a dangerously risky game. It significantly undermines Thailand’s credibility in the international market. In the worst-case scenario, trade policy retaliation could occur.
In an era of global trade tensions, high tariffs, and new trade barriers, countries are scrutinizing the origin of goods more closely. A false declaration could immediately lead to intensified controls on all Thai exports.
Customs Aims to Protect Clean Trade
Director Phanthong emphasized, according to SiamRath, that the harsh penalties are not an end in themselves. They demonstrate a strong commitment to enforcing laws and upholding international trade standards. The goal is to protect legitimate businesses, promote fair exports, and rebuild and strengthen trust in Thailand’s trade system and its reputation.
Source: AseanNow Thailand