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She noted that Thai producers who previously struggled to source sufficient local content for bilateral FTAs may now find RCEP’s cumulation provisions offer a straightforward path to qualification.
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Digital Tools Making Compliance Simpler<\/p>\n
A recurring theme at the workshop was that RCEP’s benefits are most accessible to businesses that make use of Thailand’s digital trade infrastructure \u2014 two platforms in particular.<\/p>\n
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The first is ROVERs Plus, an online system that allows exporters to verify whether their products qualify for RCEP origin status before formally applying for certification. Businesses input their cost structure \u2014 covering originating materials, non-originating materials, production costs, and profit \u2014 and the system calculates whether the RVC threshold is met.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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Once approved, a verification result remains valid for two years, meaning companies need not repeat the process for every shipment of the same product line. Applications are processed within three working days.<\/p>\n
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The second is SMART C\/O, the DFT’s online platform for applying for Certificates of Origin around the clock. The system supports e-payments through Krungthai Bank and allows businesses to print certificates directly, removing the need to visit government offices.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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For high-volume exporters, the Approved Exporter programme goes a step further, enabling eligible companies to self-certify on commercial invoices \u2013 streamlining the process to the point where a Certificate of Origin is no longer required for every individual shipment.<\/p>\n
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Both systems are accessible through the DFT’s digital portal, and officials urged businesses yet to register to do so promptly.<\/p>\n
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SMEs Urged to Act<\/p>\n
Perhaps the most pointed message of the day was directed at smaller businesses. In his closing remarks, Taufiq Arfi Wargadalam of the RCEP Support Unit acknowledged the complexity that many firms face: “For many businesses, especially SMEs, understanding procedures, documentation, and compliance requirements can be complex. However, as we have seen today, with the right tools and knowledge, these challenges can be addressed.”<\/p>\n
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He emphasised that SMEs form the “backbone” of regional economies, and that their increased participation in cross-border trade is essential for inclusive and sustainable growth.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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Reflecting on the workshop’s broader purpose, he noted that initiatives of this kind go beyond mere awareness-raising \u2014 they build genuine capacity, helping businesses translate trade agreements into tangible commercial outcomes.<\/p>\n
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He also acknowledged the collaborative spirit that made the event possible, extending thanks to METI, the RCEP Support Unit, JETRO Bangkok, and the DFT for their joint efforts.<\/p>\n
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Closing on behalf of the Thai government, Piyachat Sorthip of the DFT’s Trade Preference Division echoed that sentiment, attributing the day’s success to the close cooperation between all organising parties.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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She expressed confidence that the Rules of Origin guidance delivered throughout the workshop would give participants a practical framework for production planning and a sharper competitive edge in overseas markets.<\/p>\n
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Her closing charge to attendees was clear and memorable: she urged every business in the room \u2014 SMEs in particular \u2014 to convert what they had learnt into what she called an “Origin Opportunity.”\u00a0<\/p>\n
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The goal, she said, is not simply to understand the rules, but to transform them into sustainable business growth. For any further questions, she reminded participants that the DFT’s 1385 Hotline remains available at all times.<\/p>\n
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What Businesses Should Do Now<\/p>\n
With RCEP’s first major review scheduled for 2027, the window to establish operational familiarity with the agreement is now. As preparations for the review also move forward, it is essential to deepen the effective utilisation of RCEP, thereby generating mutually reinforcing benefits for participating countries.<\/p>\n
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The practical steps are clear: register with the DFT’s digital platforms, use ROVERs Plus to verify origin eligibility, and explore whether your business qualifies for Approved Exporter status. For technical queries, the DFT’s 1385 Hotline offers direct support.<\/p>\n
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METI and JETRO have signalled that Wednesday’s Bangkok workshop marks the beginning of a sustained engagement programme, not a one-off event. For Thai businesses willing to invest modest effort in understanding the agreement’s mechanics, the rewards \u2014 in lower costs, wider market access, and stronger supply chain flexibility \u2014 are well within reach.
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