Import from Thailand to Saudi Arabia 2026

Import from Thailand to Saudi Arabia 2026

Complete guide to importing from Thailand to Saudi Arabia — SASO/SABER, halal certification, VAT 15%, and Jeddah/Dammam port logistics.

Import from Thailand to Saudi Arabia 2026

TUSKO Consulting helps buyers in SA import from Thailand — from supplier verification and factory audits to QC, freight, and customs clearance. This guide covers what you need to know in 2026.

Why Import from Thailand

Thailand is ASEAN's second-largest economy and a top-10 global exporter of automotive parts, electronics, rubber products, processed food, and consumer goods. Thai factories offer strong QC systems, English-speaking export teams, and mature logistics infrastructure via Laem Chabang and Bangkok ports.

Trade Agreement & Duty

Check the applicable FTA before quoting landed cost. A valid Certificate of Origin is required to claim preferential tariffs — request it from your supplier before shipment.

Compliance & Certifications

Regulated categories (food, cosmetics, electrical, medical, toys) require destination-country approvals. Build compliance timelines into your PO — some certifications take 8–16 weeks.

Logistics & Freight

Sea freight (FCL/LCL) is the default for B2B volumes. Air freight is used for samples, urgent restocks, or high-value low-weight goods. Work with a forwarder experienced in the Thailand–SA lane.

Working with TUSKO

We handle supplier sourcing, factory audit (7-step process), sample management, pre-shipment inspection, and freight coordination. Single point of contact — no separate retainer or hidden commission. Fees are built into the landed cost quote.

Related Reading

  • Thailand Sourcing Agent
  • Factory Audit Checklist
  • Sea vs Air Freight Guide
  • Incoterms 2020 Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SABER and when is it required?

SABER is Saudi Arabia's electronic conformity platform. Most regulated products need a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment Certificate (SCoC) via SABER before customs release.

Do food imports need halal certification?

Yes — all meat, poultry, and processed foods with animal derivatives need halal certification from a SFDA-approved body (e.g., CICOT in Thailand).

What are the port options?

Jeddah Islamic Port serves the west; King Abdulaziz Port Dammam serves the east. Transit from Laem Chabang is 14–20 days.