Hazardous Substances Registration
Pursuant to the Hazardous Substance Act of Thailand, the Thai FDA classifies hazardous substances into four types according to degree of hazard:
Type 1 hazardous substances: Products with a low degree of hazard that need to be monitored. Importation, exportation, manufacturing or possession of a Type 1 substance in Thailand will not require licensing or registration but are required to meet specific criteria and procedures.
Type 2 hazardous substances: Products that need to be both monitored and controlled. Type 2 requires product notification to the FDA, registration and compliance to specific criteria.
Type 3 hazardous substances: Products with a greater degree of hazard require a stricter control procedure. Type 3 must obtain FDA permit and registration certificate.
Type 4 hazardous substances: Products that may endanger wellbeing of consumers, animals, plants, property or the environment. Thai law prohibits the importation, exportation and possession of Type 4 in Thailand.
Thailand Food Registration
Importing controlled food products into Thailand must be registered with the Thai FDA with labels fully translated into the Thai language. The food must be analyzed, including the details of processing and ingredients to ensure meeting Thai FDA standards for a separate manufacturing license must also be approved. Import licenses must be renewed every 3 years.
Obtaining Thai FDA Licenses
Acquiring a license to import or manufacture food or drugs in Thailand requires a large amount of documentation. Registration certificates and supporting documents from other jurisdictions are useful in assembling a Thai FDA application. A complete and thoroughly reviewed application completed by a specialized Thailand FDA lawyer with all obtained documents can assist with expedition the filing process. FDA fees vary depending on the item being registered.