Market
Thailand is an import-dependent market for dried apricots (HS 081310), with imports recorded in UN Comtrade data (via WITS) and Turkey among the key suppliers. Thailand’s exports are small relative to imports, consistent with limited re-export and redistribution activity rather than meaningful domestic production. For products imported for sale, Thai FDA requires an import license and may require supporting evidence such as a production certificate demonstrating manufacturing standards equivalence linked to MOPH Notification No. 420 (GMP 420). Distribution is primarily through packaged snack retail and specialty imported-food channels, with some B2B use in bakery and confectionery.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer market)
Domestic RoleConsumer snack and food-ingredient market supplied mainly by imports; limited domestic repacking/relabeling by licensed importers.
SeasonalityYear-round availability driven by shelf-stable imports rather than domestic harvest seasonality.
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighNon-compliance with Thai FDA import licensing and Thai labeling requirements for processed foods can trigger shipment delays, refusal, or seizure, disrupting market entry for dried apricots.Use a Thai FDA-licensed importer; validate product category requirements in Thai FDA systems, complete e-Submission steps where applicable, and ensure Thai label content/authorization is finalized before import clearance.
Food Safety MediumDried apricots commonly use preservatives such as sulphites; additive/contaminant non-compliance or missing declarations can lead to regulatory action or buyer rejection in Thailand.Obtain exporter COA for additives/contaminants, run pre-shipment testing as required by buyers, and ensure labels align with Thai FDA/MOPH requirements for ingredient/additive disclosure.
Logistics MediumThailand’s heat and humidity increase the risk of moisture uptake, clumping, and mold if packaging barriers are inadequate or warehousing is poorly controlled; clearance delays can amplify this risk.Specify high-barrier packaging, use desiccants where appropriate, enforce dry-warehouse conditions, and plan buffer time for inspection/clearance variability.
Documentation Gap MediumMismatch across HS classification, invoice/packing list details, and Thai FDA/NSW permissions can trigger customs holds and additional inspections.Align HS code usage (commonly 081310), product description, net weight, lot codes, and licensing references across all documents; run a pre-clearance document audit with the customs broker.
Sustainability- Packaging waste and retailer pressure for reduced-plastic or recyclable packaging for imported snack products (program-dependent)
Standards- HACCP
- ISO 22000
- GMP (production certificate aligned to MOPH Notification No. 420 / GMP 420 equivalence expectations for imports)
FAQ
Can dried apricots be imported for sale in Thailand without a Thai FDA license?No. Thai FDA guidance states that importing food for sale requires a food import license under the Food Act, and the importer must be a locally established entity meeting Thai FDA requirements.
What are common customs documents used for importing dried apricots into Thailand?Common supporting documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill, and other permits or certificates as applicable (such as import licenses and certificates of origin when claiming preferences), consistent with Thailand import declaration guidance.
Which countries have supplied dried apricots to Thailand in UN Comtrade/WITS data?UN Comtrade data presented via WITS shows Turkey among the key exporters to Thailand for HS 081310 in recent years, alongside other sources that can vary by year.
Does Thailand require evidence of GMP-equivalent manufacturing standards for imported foods?Thai FDA guidance and external government guidance referencing MOPH Notification No. 420 (GMP 420) indicate that importers may need to present a production certificate or evidence demonstrating manufacturing standards equivalence, depending on product scope and import purpose.