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Tax on Imported Medical Equipment

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Any idea what the taxes would be on a Medical Device imported from USA would be? The cost of item is approx $900 USD, and they do ship to Thailand. I don't want to get stuck with a huge import tax if I order it. So anyone that has imported something kind of high priced recently, please let us know what taxes you paid, if any. Thanks in advance

Tax is the least of your concerns, first you will need to get something that's not available - it's some kind of import license / permit for the specific medical device in question - or they will simply seize it.

Don't bother. They are incredibly petty and confiscated an 'ear thermometer' which I had ordered online from me - citing the requirement for medical device approvals issued from the Thai government - the kind of thing a manufacturers subsidy might obtain prior to importing a few million such devices.

It's a joke.

https://asiaactual.com/blog/tips-for-importing-medical-devices-into-thailand/

Tips for Importing Medical Devices into Thailand

Importing medical devices into Thailand is more difficult than in other countries in the region. It is important to work with an importer with staff experienced with medical device imports to avoid customs clearance delays and added costs.

Unique to the customs clearance process for medical devices in Thailand is the requirement for a License Per Invoice (LPI) approved by the Thai FDA for each shipment. The Import License holder must apply with credentials, the original Import License, and original shipping documents (e.g., Air Waybill, shipping invoice and packing list) submitted online to Thai FDA. (The one-time fee to the TFDA for LPI submission which includes the Stamp Duty, Power of Attorney, and document submission). The FDA will confirm that all devices included in the shipment (by part number) are covered by a valid import license and then issue the LPI.  The application review process take 1 to 2 days.  The resulting License Per Invoice document is a required element of the customs clearance process for registered medical devices, accessories and spare parts.

The overall process is then similar as in other countries with assemble a submission of shipping documents, payment of import tax (if any depending on HS code), payment of VAT (7% on all goods and services), etc.  Shipping rate will vary significantly by mode and point of origin; and should be known to manufacturers.  Customs Clearance charges should not exceed 1% of Cost of Goods.


  • Author
1 hour ago, ukrules said:

Tax is the least of your concerns, first you will need to get something that's not available - it's some kind of import license / permit for the specific medical device in question - or they will simply seize it.

Don't bother. They are incredibly petty and confiscated an 'ear thermometer' which I had ordered online from me - citing the requirement for medical device approvals issued from the Thai government - the kind of thing a manufacturers subsidy might obtain prior to importing a few million such devices.

It's a joke.

Thank you looks like too much trouble. The item is available, but the newest one I have seen is at least a 2020 model, and double the price………and only from a Hospital. I want the upgraded best model for 2025. Peace

  • Author
1 hour ago, IvorBiggun2 said:

https://asiaactual.com/blog/tips-for-importing-medical-devices-into-thailand/

Tips for Importing Medical Devices into Thailand

Importing medical devices into Thailand is more difficult than in other countries in the region. It is important to work with an importer with staff experienced with medical device imports to avoid customs clearance delays and added costs.

Unique to the customs clearance process for medical devices in Thailand is the requirement for a License Per Invoice (LPI) approved by the Thai FDA for each shipment. The Import License holder must apply with credentials, the original Import License, and original shipping documents (e.g., Air Waybill, shipping invoice and packing list) submitted online to Thai FDA. (The one-time fee to the TFDA for LPI submission which includes the Stamp Duty, Power of Attorney, and document submission). The FDA will confirm that all devices included in the shipment (by part number) are covered by a valid import license and then issue the LPI.  The application review process take 1 to 2 days.  The resulting License Per Invoice document is a required element of the customs clearance process for registered medical devices, accessories and spare parts.

The overall process is then similar as in other countries with assemble a submission of shipping documents, payment of import tax (if any depending on HS code), payment of VAT (7% on all goods and services), etc.  Shipping rate will vary significantly by mode and point of origin; and should be known to manufacturers.  Customs Clearance charges should not exceed 1% of Cost of Goods.


Thank You fr the very detailed reply, Geez Louize all that for a single personal use item?? It is available in Thailand, but can only be bought thru a Hospital, and from what I have seen double.triple the price what I can get it for in US or Canada. Guess I’ll wait for my next trip and carry one in. Thanks again. Peace

I had a friend go through hell just to get a cane sent here for bigger men. Crazy. Not worth the hassle anymore.

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