The Department of Foreign Trade of Thailand (DFT) is implementing important updates to the issuance of Certificates of Origin (C/O) under the Thailand–Chile Free Trade Agreement (TCFTA) and the ASEAN–Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA). These amendments are primarily aimed at aligning Thailand’s origin certification framework with the Harmonized System (HS) 2022, ensuring that Product Specific Rules (PSRs) remain consistent with current international tariff classifications. The amended rules will take effect from 1 April 2026 for TCFTA and 1 May 2026 for AKFTA, replacing earlier frameworks and preserving exporters’ access to preferential tariff treatment.
A key feature of the updated framework is the enhancement of procedural mechanisms surrounding the issuance of C/O documents. These include provisions for retroactive issuance (within one year), back-to-back certificates, treatment of exhibition goods, third-country invoicing, and the issuance of replacement certificates marked as “certified true copies.” In addition, exporters are required to retain supporting documentation for at least three years, reinforcing auditability and compliance. These measures reflect a broader effort to standardise documentation practices and ensure consistency with international trade requirements.
From a compliance perspective, exporters must carefully reassess their operations to ensure continued eligibility for preferential tariff benefits. This includes reviewing HS classifications under the updated system, recalculating regional value content where applicable, and verifying the accuracy of supply chain documentation. Failure to align with the amended PSRs or documentation requirements may result in the temporary loss of preferential duty treatment, potentially affecting cost competitiveness in key export markets such as Chile and South Korea.
From a legal and policy standpoint, these updates represent a continued effort by Thailand to modernise its trade administration and align with evolving international standards. While businesses may face short-term compliance adjustments, the long-term impact is expected to be positive, particularly through the continued use of electronic C/O systems that enhance efficiency and transparency. More broadly, the reforms strengthen Thailand’s trade facilitation framework, support exporters’ global competitiveness, and reinforce the credibility of its rules of origin regime within the international trading system.
Thailand Updates Certificate of Origin Procedures under TCFTA and AKFTA_Bangkok Global Law