Thailand tightens rules for long term visiting boats

Created by webmaster. Last modified on 2002-08-19 00:50:48
Contributors: Martin Fieldman
Topic: Cruising Information
Countries: Thailand

The Thai government has decided to apply more strictly a law which has been in force for a few years already but has rarely been applied to visiting cruising boats. Owners of boats who wish to remain in Thailand over the currently permitted 6 months will have to import their vessels into Thailand and pay a number of taxes: 35% import duty, 50% excise duty and 10% luxury tax. This ruling is also applied to foreign flagged boats being used for commercial purposes.

Intense lobbying from influential persons in local sailing circles, including the organizing committee of the annual King's Cup, may lead to a relaxation of this drastic rule. Also, it is reported that a recommendation has been made by the Ministry of Finance to extend the grace period from 6 to 12 months.

While the current uncertain situation continues, owners of cruising boats planning to spend longer in Thailand are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the latest Thai laws and comply strictly with all regulations, however unreasonable they may appear to be.