2026 Southeast Asian multi-country tariff new policy comes into effect: Thailand cancels small tax exemption, cross-border direct shipping cost increases significantly

In the first half of 2026, Southeast Asian countries will update import tariffs and customs clearance regulatory policies, and the logistics industry will undergo significant adjustments. Thailand's nationwide cancellation of the small parcel duty-free policy will have the most direct impact on small and medium-sized cross-border sellers. Since January of this year, Thailand has abolished the 1500 baht low-value goods tax-free clause that has been in use for many years. All inbound packages will be subject to a 7% value-added tax in addition to a graded tariff. The highest tariff for clothing, bags, cosmetics and other categories is 30%. The overall tax burden for single small items is more than 25%.

Malaysia has stepped up its regulation, introducing a 10% special consumption tax on LVG, in addition to the existing graded import tariffs. The customs system automatically compares the product market price, and if the declared price is 40% lower than the market price, it will trigger manual inspection, the goods will be detained, and a large fine will be paid. Indonesia has launched a 48-hour pre-clearance system for goods arriving at the port, and the clearance rate of scattered direct mail parcels is less than 60%. A large number of single direct shipments have been delayed.

After the implementation of the policy, the cost advantage of the direct shipping mode of single small items completely disappeared, and the bulk collection channel of whole cabinets and bulk collection channels, relying on the bulk tax exemption, can reduce the comprehensive tax burden by about 40%, becoming the most cost-effective shipping scheme at present. Industry logistics practitioners suggest that subsequent overseas enterprises need to adjust their shipping strategies, reduce scattered direct mail, unify domestic warehouse consolidation and container shipment, and standardize the application materials, complete the certificates of origin and brand authorization documents, and avoid underreporting or misreporting.

Relying on the RCEP policy benefits, 98% of China's exports to Southeast Asia can enjoy tariff reductions, and formal logistics service providers can assist customers in handling Form E certificates of origin to legally reduce import costs. Industry experts suggest that sellers should choose compliance express logistics with local self-operated customs clearance teams as a priority, to avoid the risks of detention, fines, and store bans from gray channels, and to establish a stable long-term market in Southeast Asia.