Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has issued four new import regulations for animal-feed maize and wheat that took effect on 1 January 2026. A “burn-free” requirement has been introduced for imported maize used in animal feed. This means corn must be produced without crop burning practices (e.g., slash-and-burn) to be allowed into Thailand. Importers must now provide detailed documentation proving the production source and burn-free compliance, such as traceability data, cultivation practices, and origin certification. The government will accept self-certification from importers initially, or certificates from competent authorities or internationally recognized bodies in exporting countries.
The move forms part of Thailand’s effort to combat seasonal air pollution (PM2.5 haze) that is partly caused by agricultural burning — both domestically and regionally. By linking market access to environmental production standards, the policy also aligns Thai import rules with global sustainability practices.
The policy changes maintain Thailand’s existing tariff and import frameworks under WTO and ASEAN agreements. Under the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA/ATIGA), feed maize from ASEAN member states still enters Thailand at zero tariff, but the import window has been shortened to Feb 1–June 30, 2026 to protect local farmers during harvest season. Thailand’s WTO tariff-rate quota for feed maize has been significantly expanded from ~54,700 tonnes to 1 million tonnes, available to both state and private importers. Wheat imports for animal feed continue under existing regulations without the new “burn-free” conditions, focusing on supply stability.
✅ Importers must upgrade sourcing systems to track and verify maize production methods.
✅ Documentation must be retained for audit for at least five years.
✅ The regulation is expected to impact supply chains — especially for exporters to Thailand that rely on slash-and-burn practices.
📊 Ultimately, this reflects a broader trend of trade policy being used to promote environmental goals while addressing domestic air quality issues.
