Thailand Enhances Dual-use items controls to meet Emerging Challenges

The Ministry of Commerce is tightening controls on dual-use goods and other items linked to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), while easing compliance for exporters. At its second meeting of 2026 on Sept 18, the Committee on the Control of Items in relation to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction approved the introduction of a Catch-All Control (CAC) measure and a Bulk License, as well as the issuance of relevant subordinate regulations to extend licensing to dual-use items in Category 7 (Navigation and Avionics), Category 8 (Marine), and Category 9 (Aerospace and Propulsion). According to the Ministry, the measures are aimed at boosting confidence among trading partners and investors while maintaining Thailand’s competitiveness.

The meeting was chaired by Vuttikrai Leewiraphan, Permanent Secretary for Commerce. The committee was established under the Control of Item in Relation to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction Act B.E. 2562 (2019), bringing together representatives from 13 government agencies responsible for national security, foreign affairs, international trade and relevant technical fields. It is tasked with formulating policies, plans and measures to ensure that Thailand’s controls on WMD-related items remain effective and responsive to current developments.

Arada Fuangtong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), said the meeting followed up on the committee’s first meeting of 2026, held on Nov 10, 2025. The DFT, which serves as the committee’s secretariat and designated implementing agency, has since implemented key resolutions, including licensing requirements for nuclear-related dual-use items under Category 0, which took effect on June 30, 2026.

At the second meeting of 2026, the committee approved the repeal of the End-Use and End-User Control (EUEUC) measure under the notification of ministry of commerce on Measures for the Purpose of Control of Item in Relation to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and Measures Relating to Item with Reasonable Doubt Concerning a Connection between an End-Use or an End-User and the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction B.E. 2564 (2021). The repeal is intended to reduce information-reporting requirements and avoid duplication with the licensing measures currently in force.

The committee also approved a Catch-All Control (CAC) measure covering items not listed on the National Strategic Items Control List (NCL), as part of efforts to address WMD proliferation risks linked to geopolitical developments and emerging technologies. Non-listed items would be required to obtain a license if their end use or end users are found to pose proliferation risks.

To ease the compliance burden on exporters, the committee also approved a Bulk License measure for companies that regularly ship the same products to the same consignees. The measure, expected to take effect within 2026, would reduce the need to apply for an individual license for each shipment. In addition, the committee approved the establishment of a subcommittee to assess products and risks under Categories 7, 8 and 9, in preparation for the next phase of expanding the scope of licensing measure, in line with a resolution adopted at its first meeting of 2026.

Mrs Arada said the measures approved at the meeting are intended to keep Thailand’s trade rules aligned with a rapidly changing global environment, particularly geopolitical risks and emerging technologies. At the same time, the government aims to preserve flexibility for businesses and exporters so Thai companies can remain connected to global supply chains under internationally recognized control standards. She said the measures would also strengthen confidence in Thailand’s trade and investment environment. Relevant government agencies will now work together on the details to implement the committee’s resolutions as soon as possible.

The DFT will proceed with drafting and issuing the regulations required to implement the committee’s resolutions. Businesses can follow regulatory updates on the DFT website at www.dft.go.th and the department’s WMD trade control portal at https://etcwmd.dft.go.th Further information is available from the DFT hotline at 1385 or the Dual-Use Items Administration Unit, Agreement Merchandise Administration and Trade Measures Division at 02-547-4735.