10 Popular Thailand Export and Import Commodities!

Last updated on June 28th, 2024 at 02:03 pm

Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles," is one of the Southeast Asian countries with a dynamic and diverse economy. Situated strategically in the heart of the region, Thailand has become a major hub for trade and investment. 

The Thai economy heavily relies on international trade, both through exports and imports, which play a crucial role in its growth. The country is well-known for its various key exports and for importing goods to meet domestic needs. Let’s take a closer look at Thailand’s major export and imported import commodities.

Thailand’s Export Commodities

Thailand is known for having one of the strongest economies in Southeast Asia. Based on data from the ASEAN National Secretariat of Indonesia, here are some of the main commodities Thailand exports, along with their destination countries:

1. Automobiles, Parts, and Accessories

Thailand is one of the world’s leading producers of automobiles and auto parts. The automotive industry significantly contributes to the country’s exports, with major export destinations including Japan, Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Thai-made vehicles are highly regarded for their quality and competitive production costs, making them popular in international markets. money transfer to thailand, Easylink is the solution!

2. Ethylene, Propylene Polymers, and Other Primary Forms

These polymers are used in a wide range of industries, including packaging, construction, and manufacturing. Thailand exports these polymer products to countries like China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Japan. The high purity and quality of Thai ethylene and propylene polymers make them sought after in global markets for various industrial applications.

3. Machinery and Related Components

Thailand manufactures a variety of machines and components used across different industrial sectors. These products are exported to the United States, Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Items include agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and manufacturing tools, all of which contribute significantly to the country's export revenue.

Chemical Products

Thailand exports a variety of industrial chemicals used in production, agriculture, and other sectors. Key export markets for these chemicals include China, Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The country produces a range of chemicals, including basic chemicals, fertilizers, and specialty chemicals, which are essential in various industries.

Sugar

Thailand is one of the world’s largest exporters of sugar, primarily sourced from its domestic sugarcane plantations. Major importers of Thai sugar include China, Indonesia, South Korea, and Malaysia. Thai sugar is valued for its high quality and efficient production methods, making it a leading supplier in international markets.

6. Internal Combustion Engines with Spark Ignition

These engines are used in vehicles and other equipment requiring internal combustion engines. Thailand exports these engines to the United States, Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia. 

7. Iron and Steel Products

Thai iron and steel products are known for their strength and high production quality, supporting construction and manufacturing projects globally. These products are exported to countries such as Japan, the United States, Vietnam, and Indonesia. 

Read Also: 10 Main Indonesian Import Commodities and Their Countries of Origin

8. Air Conditioning and Related Components

Products like air conditioners and associated components are exported worldwide, including to the United States, Japan, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Thai-made air conditioners are known for their efficiency and advanced technology, making them a popular choice in international markets.

9. Plastic Products

Plastic products from Thailand are used in a variety of applications, including packaging, automotive, and consumer goods. The main export markets for Thai plastics are China, Indonesia, Japan, and Vietnam. Thailand’s plastic industry produces high-quality products used in industries ranging from food packaging to automotive parts.

10. Tapioca Products

Thailand is a major producer and exporter of tapioca, which is used in the food industry and various other products. Tapioca is exported to countries like China, Japan, Taiwan, and Indonesia. Thai tapioca is highly valued for its quality and wide range of applications, from food ingredients to industrial materials.

Thailand’s Import Commodities

As one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia, Thailand has significant import needs to support its industries. Below are some of the main commodities that Thailand imports, along with their countries of origin: ASEAN National Secretariat of Indonesia:

1. Crude Oil

Crude oil is one of Thailand’s primary imports to meet its domestic energy needs. This oil is used as a key raw material for producing fuel and petrochemical products. Major sources of crude oil imports include countries in the Middle East, Russia, and the United States. 

Read Also: Estimated Cost of Living in Thailand and Tips!

2. Coal

Coal is imported to fulfill energy requirements in Thailand, particularly for electricity generation and heavy industry. The country imports coal from countries like Indonesia, Australia, and Russia. Despite efforts to increase the use of renewable energy, coal remains a dominant energy source due to its relatively low cost and availability.

3. Other Metal Ores and Scrap Metal

Thailand also imports various metal ores and scrap metal to support its domestic smelting and metal production industries. These materials are sourced from countries like Australia, Chile, and Peru. The ores and scrap are used to produce a variety of metal products for the construction, manufacturing, and technology sectors.

4. Machinery and Parts

Thailand imports machinery and parts from countries such as Japan, China, and Germany. These machines are essential for improving efficiency and productivity in local industries, as well as for replacing older machines with more advanced technologies.

5. Chemicals

Thailand imports various types of chemicals used in manufacturing, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The primary sources of these chemical imports are China, the United States, and Germany. These chemicals are used in the production of goods ranging from plastics to medicines and play a crucial role in supporting Thailand’s growing industries.

6. Vehicle Parts and Accessories

Parts and accessories for vehicles are imported to support Thailand’s rapidly expanding automotive industry. Major sources of these imports include Japan, China, and South Korea. Thailand’s automotive industry relies on high-quality parts for vehicle production and maintenance, with exports going to various countries worldwide.

7. Passenger Cars

Thailand imports passenger cars to meet the high demand in the domestic market. These vehicles come from countries like Japan, Germany, and South Korea. Imported cars help Thailand meet the demands of consumers looking for the latest technology and features in their vehicles.

Read Also: 10 Indonesian Export Commodities You Need to Know

8. Electric Machinery and Components

Electric machinery and its components are imported to support various sectors, including electronics and automation. The main countries supplying these imports are China, Japan, and South Korea. These products are vital for advancing technology and improving industrial efficiency in Thailand.

9. Vegetables and Vegetable Products

Thailand also imports a range of vegetables and vegetable products, including cereals, flour, coconut oil, fats, rubber, chocolate, and tobacco. These imports come from countries such as China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. These vegetables and products are used in Thailand’s food industry and other consumer goods.

10. Fresh, Frozen, Processed, and Instant Seafood

To meet domestic demand and support the food industry, Thailand imports various seafood products. These include fresh, frozen, processed, and instant seafood, with primary sources being Vietnam, China, and India. These imports ensure the availability of high-quality seafood for Thai consumers.