由 caicai8478 When exploring the Southeast Asian market, avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. As ASEAN’s three largest economies, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia offer enormous market potential, yet their customs policies and compliance requirements differ significantly. Knowing yourself and your enemy is key to success.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the core differences and key areas of concern in the customs policies of these three countries, helping you navigate smooth customs clearance for your goods.
I. Overview of Core Principles: Understanding the Differences in a Table
Characteristic Dimensions: Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia
Policy Style: Rigorous, Document-Driven
Flexible, Relatively Standardized Processes
Complex, License-Driven
Valuation Tendency: Strict, Frequent Review of Invoice Values
According to regulations, Accepting Reasonable Commercial Values
Strict, Focusing on Market Reference Prices
Core Thresholds: Origin, Product Name/HS Code
Special Regulation for Food/Drugs, etc.
Importer Qualifications, SNI Certification
Customs Clearance Keys: High Consistency of Documents
Consistency of Letter of Credit Documents
Compliance with Technical Standards and Labeling
II. Vietnam Customs: Details Determine Success
Vietnam Customs is known for its strictness and attention to detail. Any minor omission in documentation can result in customs clearance delays or additional fees.
Key Points:
The “Direct Shipment Rule” for the Certificate of Origin (FORM E):
This is the most problematic step. If goods transit through a third-party transit point, such as Hong Kong or Singapore, a “Certificate of Non-Reprocessing” must be issued by the transit point customs or the China Inspection and Quarantine Agency. Otherwise, the FORM E will be invalid, and the customer will not be able to enjoy tariff benefits.
Goods Description and HS Code:
The goods description on the commercial invoice and packing list must be highly detailed and accurate, and completely consistent with Form E.
The HS code declaration must be accurate. Vietnamese Customs has its own tariff classification, which may differ slightly from that of China. We recommend confirming this with your client in advance.
Reviewing the Invoice Value:
Vietnamese Customs is very sensitive to low-value declarations. If the declared value is lower than the reference price in their internal system, you will likely be required to pay back taxes and be fined. Ensure that the declared value is consistent with market conditions.
Advice for Exporters:
Double-check all customs clearance document details with your client.
Proactively inquire whether the goods require transit, and plan ahead for a Certificate of Non-Reprocessing.
Never assist clients with “low-value declarations,” as this is extremely risky.
III. Thai Customs: Flexibility within Regulations
Thai customs procedures are relatively standardized and transparent, but regulations for certain goods, particularly food, medicine, and cosmetics, are extremely strict.
Key Points:
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Approvals:
For importing these products, importers must apply for and obtain an import license from the Thai FDA in advance. This process can be time-consuming, so be sure to confirm that the customer has all necessary qualifications before shipment.
Document Consistency Under Letter of Credit Transactions:
Under letter of credit payment terms, Thai banks and customs have extremely strict requirements for “document consistency.” All documents (invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, etc.) must be free of ambiguity or inconsistencies, otherwise payment may be refused or customs clearance may be delayed.
Duty Payment and Assessment:
Thai customs valuation is primarily based on transaction value, and the process is relatively standardized. Some products may be subject to value-added tax (VAT), consumption tax, etc., so importers must have a clear cost budget.
Advice for Exporters:
Before exporting sensitive products, Thai FDA approval must be a prerequisite for contract entry or shipment.
If using a letter of credit, ensure that all documents fully reflect the terms of the letter of credit.
We recommend that customers choose an experienced local customs broker in Thailand.
IV. Indonesian Customs: Technical Barriers and Qualification Thresholds
The Indonesian market has enormous potential, but customs and technical trade measures are particularly complex. “Importer Qualification” is the first key to unlocking the market.
Key Points:
Importer Qualification (API) and NIU:
Importers must possess a valid Importer Identification Number (API) and apply for an Import Authorization Notification (NIU) for each import. This is a mandatory prerequisite for customs clearance.
SNI Compulsory Certification:
A large number of products (such as home appliances, electronics, building materials, toys, and footwear) must complete SNI certification with the Indonesian National Standards Bureau and affix the SNI mark before they can be imported and sold on the market. This is the most core technical barrier.
Labeling and Language Requirements:
All consumer products sold in the Indonesian market must have complete Indonesian labeling on their outer packaging, including the product name, ingredients, manufacturer information, importer information, and production/expiration date.
Advice for Exporters:
When working with a new client, the first step is to verify their API qualification.
Before exporting, confirm with the customer whether the product is included in the SNI certification catalog and ensure that it has been certified.
Provide a suitable Indonesian label design or reserve labeling space on the production line.
V. Summary and Action List
Country Your Action List (Must-Check Before Shipping)
Vietnam 1. Confirm Form E and transit certificate; 2. Verify consistency of all document information; 3. Review the reasonableness of the declared value.
Thailand 1. (If applicable) Confirm that the customer has obtained Thai FDA approval; 2. (If applicable) Ensure absolute consistency between the letter of credit and the documents.
Indonesia 1. Confirm that the customer has valid API qualifications; 2. Confirm that the product has completed SNI certification; 3. Provide Indonesian labeling.
General Golden Rules:
Find a good freight forwarder: A freight forwarder with a strong agency network in the destination country can help you solve 80% of customs clearance problems.
Communicate in Advance: Never assume that the customer knows all regulations. Hold a meeting with the customer before production to clarify all customs and certification requirements.
Compliance is your lifeline. Assisting clients in non-compliant practices (such as under-declaring customs and using false product names) for short-term profit ultimately results in a loss of market share and reputation.
Understanding and respecting these differences and proactively preparing for compliance will help you navigate the complexities of Southeast Asian trade and transform customs challenges into a core competitive advantage.