Duty Free Zone Application

The process for applying to enter a duty-free zone (also called a free trade zone or bonded zone) in Thailand involves several key steps. Here is a rough guide:

1. Understand the policies and requirements

Research relevant laws and regulations : Understand Thailand’s laws, regulations and policies regarding duty-free zones, especially those issued by the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI) and the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT).

Choose the right free zone : Identify a free zone that suits your company’s business needs and ensure that the area has the necessary infrastructure and services.

2. Prepare application materials

  • Company registration documents description
  • Project Plan description
  • Financial Statements description
  • Other supporting documents description

3. Submit your application

Contact the relevant agency : Contact the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) or the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) for detailed application forms and process guidance.
Submit application materials : Submit all necessary documents and forms as required.
Pay the application fee : Pay the corresponding application fee.

4. Audit and Evaluation

Preliminary review : The relevant department will conduct a preliminary review to confirm the completeness and compliance of the application materials.
Site Visit : A site visit to the project site may be arranged to assess the project’s feasibility and suitability for the Free Zone.
Expert review : In some cases, a team of experts will be organized to review the project to ensure that it meets policy and development goals.

5. Approval and contract signing

Approval : If your application is approved, you will receive a notification of approval.
Signing an agreement : Sign an entry agreement with the duty-free zone management agency to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties.
Complete entry procedures : According to the agreement, complete relevant entry procedures, such as registration, tax registration, etc.

6. Construction and operation

Project construction : Carry out project construction according to the plan to ensure compliance with environmental protection, safety and other standards.
Normal operation : After the construction is completed, formal operation will begin, and you can enjoy the preferential policies and services provided by the duty-free zone.

7. Continuous compliance management

Regular reporting : Regularly report operating conditions to the Free Zone Management Authority to ensure continued compliance with policy requirements.
Policy update : Pay attention to relevant policy changes and adjust business strategies in a timely manner to ensure continued enjoyment of duty-free zone benefits.

Professional consultation : Consider hiring a professional legal or consulting firm to assist with the application process.
Communication with local governments : Maintain good communication with local governments and free zone management agencies to ensure smooth progress of various applications and operations.

Contact information of major duty-free zone agencies in Thailand

  • General Department of Customs of Thailand (Custom)
  • Thailand Board of Investment (BOI)
  • Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT)

The application process and required documents may vary depending on your specific business needs and the tax-free zone you choose. Therefore, be sure to consult with relevant agencies or professional advisors in detail before applying.