The Thai Customs Authority recently canceled the practice of screening tourists with large amounts of branded items upon arrival at the airport. This is a positive change as it eliminates an intrusive and potentially embarrassing moment for travelers who may have limited knowledge of Thai customs law.
The Customs Department also noted that the import of luxury goods into the country without declaring them is prohibited.
Any tourist who has not declared luxury items must carry a reasonable amount of personal belongings, the total value of which must be less than 20,000 baht (approximately $645).
In the event that they receive information about smuggling, travelers can still be searched and their goods confiscated if they do not comply with the rules.
A recent example of a similar situation is when a Thai woman and her partner were detained at the airport last May on suspicion of selling their goods in Thailand. Subsequently, they were fined by customs officers for luxury handbags and clothes that were brought into Thailand without a declaration and proper taxation.
Removing this intrusive practice should make it easier for tourists to visit Thailand without having to worry about bringing too many branded items with them or being subjected to unnecessary searches upon arrival at the airport.
