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Thailand Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Thailand

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended in public spaces.

Thailand entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Thailand from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

Can I travel to Thailand if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Thailand without restrictions.

Can I travel to Thailand without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Thailand without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Thailand?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Thailand.

Can I travel to Thailand without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Thailand?

Mask usage in Thailand is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Thailand?

Restaurants in Thailand are open. Bars in Thailand are .

No more 7-day quarantine as Thailand encourages vaccinated tourists to return

Jan 20, 2022 • 4 min read

Thailand is resuming its quarantine-free entry program for international visitors ©Getty Images

Thailand is resuming its Test-and-Go tourism plan  from February, which means that fully vaccinated visitors can bypass seven-day quarantine and travel to any part of Thailand, provided they take a negative COVID-19 test on the first and fifth day of their visit.

Fully vaccinated tourists from 63 countries, including United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Germany, China, Singapore, Spain, France, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, and Malaysia, can soon avail of the Test-and-Go program again after the government suspended it in December due to the uncertaintity surrounding the Omicron variant.

The (almost) quarantine-free entry Test-and-Go plan requires fully vaccinated arrivals to have COVID-19 insurance cover of at least US$50,000 (£36,600), and present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test before they depart for Thailand.

New applicants for the Test-and-Go program are also required to undergo two additional COVID-19 tests upon arrival and must, at their own expense, spend the first night and fifth night in Thailand quarantining at a government-approved hotel while awaiting their results (COVID-19 test results can take about 24 hours to be processed). Tourists must stay in their room while awaiting the result. But once the result is negative, tourists will be free to move and travel around Thailand much in the same way that any Thai citizen can.

Anyone who applied for the Test-and-Go program before December 22 and received their QR code is required to take their test on day five and six instead.

Government spokesperson Taweesilp Wisanuyothin told reporters, via The Bangkok Post , that the Test-and-Go program can resume on February 1 now that the Omicron peak has passed. The tourism program will be kept under review though, along with the Sandbox program  (Thailand's first phase of its return to tourism which allows fully vaccinated visitors from any country to travel to approved locations such as Phuket , Krabi and Ko Pha-ngan  for at least seven days before being free to travel around Thailand).

"In case there are more infections or the situation changes, there will be a re-assessment for inbound travellers and adjust toward the Sandbox scheme," Wisanuyothin said.

Travelers are also required to download the MorChana app , a tracking app where they will be reminded to take another antigen test on day five. Travelers under the age of 12 are exempt from vaccination requirements but they will be required to undergo testing.

Unvaccinated travelers in Thailand

People who are not vaccinated can also visit Thailand under the country's Alternative Quarantine program . They must apply for a Thailand Pass and travelers over the age of six must take a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours before traveling. They'll also have to have an insurance policy with at least US$50,000 coverage and pay for their quarantine accommodation before traveling to Thailand, as well as their PCR tests.

Travelers who are fully vaccinated with an approved dose (or at least one dose for travelers under the age of 18) are required to quarantine for seven days and take two PCR tests. Travelers who are not fully vaccinated must quarantine for 10 days and take three PCR tests. When they quarantine period is over, travelers will be free to travel around Thailand.

Read more: Full Moon Party or peaceful paradise? Thailand has a beach for you

Thailand entry fee

Meanwhile, Thailand is considering introducing a tourist fee of 300 baht ($9/£7) in April, though it has yet to be approved. If introduced, the charge would be applied to all international tourists, regardless of where they are coming from and included in their airfare.. According to Thailand's tourism ministry , the revenue generated from the fee would be used to fund the sustainable management of Thailand's tourism resources, in addition to covering accident insurance for tourists who can't afford it.

"We've encountered times when insurance didn't have coverage for tourists... which became our burden to take care of them," the country's tourism minister, Yuthasak Supasorn, told Reuters .

Thailand continues to categorize provinces into dark red, red and orange zones based on their COVID-19 risk, with varied restrictions in place across each zone. Check the latest advice for the area you are traveling to before departure. Face masks are compulsory across Thailand and must be worn in indoor and outdoor public places and on public transport.

You might also like: The quickest, easiest and most affordable ways to get around in Thailand You won't believe the views on these 9 iconic Thailand hikes Bali is now open to international travelers from these countries

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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Update April 12, 2024

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Thailand Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, thailand - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

• Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces due to  civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Thailand.

If you decide to travel to Thailand:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Thailand.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla Provinces – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests by a domestic insurgency continues to affect security in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. In Songkhla, the insurgency is most active in the districts of Chana, Thepha, Nathawat, and Saba Yoi. U.S. citizens are at risk of death or injury due to the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in public places.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Travel to Thailand is about to get easier for vaccinated tourists

BANGKOK — Visitors vaccinated for COVID-19 will no longer need a test before traveling to Thailand starting April 1, health officials said Friday.

Visitors will still need to take a RT-PCR test upon arrival and a self-administered rapid antigen test on the fifth day in the country, said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesperson for the government’s Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration.

Thailand is keen to restore its lucrative tourism sector, which took a nosedive when most arrivals from overseas dried up since April 2020.

Neighboring Cambodia, whose tourism industry was similarly battered, announced Thursday that fully vaccinated passengers are no longer required to have a RT-PCR test before arrival. It also removed the need for a rapid antigen test upon arrival.

TRAVEL TO THAILAND: Thailand easing entry requirements in March despite rising COVID-19 cases

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Coronavirus cases in Thailand

Thai health authorities are currently coping with record numbers of daily COVID-19 cases and related deaths this year.

There were more than 50,000 new cases reported Friday, slightly more than half confirmed by RT-PCR tests, and the remainder with rapid antigen tests. There were also 80 new deaths.

Since the pandemic started in 2020, Thailand has had a total of around 3.3 million confirmed cases and 24,075 deaths.

The health authorities are concerned about the potential for the spread of the virus next month during the Songkran festival , a raucous holiday that celebrates the Thai New Year.

They have prohibited the traditional splashing of water in the streets and other public areas and banned the selling and consumption of alcohol at public celebrations.

TRAVEL TO SOUTH KOREA: South Korea to allow fully vaccinated travelers to visit without a quarantine period

CANADA EASES ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Canada to drop COVID testing requirement for vaccinated travelers

A major threat from the holiday is mass travel from the cities to home villages in rural provinces. The practice was a huge problem last year, when most Thais had not yet been vaccinated.

Thailand has administered 126 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines. At least 54.6 million people, more than 78% of the population, have been vaccinated with at least one jab. Fifty million people have received at least two jabs, and 22 million received booster doses.

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Exercise a high degree of caution to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Thailand (PDF 998.61 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 1669 for medical emergencies and rescue services.

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok. 1669 Nationwide.

Call 191 for police.

Call 1155 for the tourist police.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution  to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Exercise a high degree of caution  to Thailand overall due to the possibility of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Reconsider your need to travel  to Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat provinces.

Reconsider your need to travel  to:

• Yala province,
• Pattani province, and 
• Narathiwat province

due to ongoing risks of low-level insurgent activity.

See  Safety .

• Anti-government protests have previously occurred in Bangkok and other areas of Thailand. The security environment can be unpredictable and turn violent. Those attending protests can face arrest or other legal consequences. Monitor local media for information on protest locations and avoid public gatherings. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Popular tourist areas in Thailand may be the target of terrorist attacks. Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Border areas near Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia are dangerous due to violence, armed conflict and landmines. Pay close attention to your personal security.
• Reconsider your need to travel to the 3 most southern provinces of the Thailand-Malaysia border: Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Low-level insurgent activity continues to occur in these areas.  
• Sexual assault, assault, robbery and drink spiking can happen to tourists. Never leave your drink unattended. Stick with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• If you're visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires COVID-19 testing (RAT or PCR test) for entry, you'll need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand. The insurance will need to provide cover for COVID-19 treatment.
• Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription. Get medical advice before buying medicine.
• Insect-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof as possible. 
• Animals in parts of Thailand can carry rabies. Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys. If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment immediately.
• Thailand has high levels of air pollution. Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. Check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index .
• Medical tourism is common. Avoid discount and uncertified medical establishments. Their standards can be poor. Research medical service providers and choose with care.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.
• Commercial surrogacy is illegal. E-cigarettes, e-baraku, vaporisers and refills are illegal. Smoking on some beaches is illegal. Travel without carrying identification is illegal.
• Penalties for breaking the law can apply to anyone aged under 18 years. Penalties for children can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.
• Thailand has the death penalty for serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder and rape. Crimes against the state and offences against the monarchy can also attract the death penalty. Take care not to cause offence about the monarchy, including on social media.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You can get a visa exemption for up to 30 days if you arrive through one of the international airports or for up to 15 days if you enter through a land border (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year). Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Thailand or see the  Thai government's Facebook page  for the latest details. 
• You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry, and restrictions may change at short notice. Check with your airline, the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or the nearest Thai Embassy for the latest information. 
• You can transit between international flights in Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport . Ensure that your connecting flight is booked on the same itinerary and ticket. You must remain in the transiting area in the airport.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy, Bangkok , the  Australian Consulate-General, Phuket  or the Passport and Notarial Services, Chiang Mai .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, security situation .

The security situation can be unpredictable in Thailand.  Large protests have occurred in Bangkok and other areas. In previous years, large political protests and government crowd control operations have resulted in violence.

More incidents are possible.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, processions and public gatherings
• follow media and other sources
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities
• If you see a suspicious package, stay clear and report it to Police

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Thailand-Cambodia border

Thailand and Cambodia have an ongoing border dispute. There's a risk of landmines and unexploded weapons near the Thai-Cambodian border area.

Be extra careful at tourist areas, including:

• the Preah Vihear temple - Khao Pra Viharn in Thailand
• the Ta Kwai temple - Ta Krabei in Cambodia
• the Ta Muen Thom temple - Ta Moan in Cambodia

Tourist attractions and border crossings in this area may close with little or no notice.

Thailand-Myanmar border

Fighting and armed theft can occur along the Thai-Myanmar border. This includes:

• fighting between the Burmese military and armed ethnic opposition groups
• clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups, such as drug traffickers

Armed clashes between the military and opposition groups inside Myanmar may lead to border closures.

If you try to cross the border illegally, you may be detained and deported.

Bandits may target you if you travel through national parks in this border region.

If you travel to this region:

• monitor the news
• watch out for other signs of unrest
• pay close attention to your personal security

Thailand-Malaysia border

Reconsider your need to travel to or from the three most southern provinces:

Violence includes attacks and bombings, with deaths and injuries. Since 2004, over 6500 people have been killed and many more injured in these provinces.

Bombings are often coordinated to target people who respond to the first explosion.

Over the past few years, multiple coordinated explosions have occurred in the southern border provinces, and low-level insurgent activity continues.  

If you travel to or stay in these provinces, you could get caught up in violence directed at others.

Attacks can happen at any time.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Attacks, including bombings, are possible anytime. They can happen anywhere, including Bangkok and Phuket.

Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.

Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays.

In August 2016, around 24 incidents with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), arson and other suspicious events killed 4 people and injured over 30.

Some IEDs were detonated in popular tourist spots, including:

• Hua Hin, Patong Beach and Loma Park in Phuket
• Surat Thani

On 10 March 2019, several IEDs exploded in Phatthalung and Satun provinces. No people were killed or injured. 

IED incidents have occurred in Bangkok and other tourist areas in recent years. On 2 August 2019, a series of explosions occurred in public places throughout Bangkok, including near Chong Nonsi BTS Station and outside several Thai Government buildings.

In May 2017, attacks at a Bangkok Military Hospital and the National Theatre injured 26 people.

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• shopping malls, markets and banks
• hotels and beach resorts
• restaurants, bars and nightclubs
• schools and places of worship
• outdoor recreation events

Other targets include public buildings, public transport, airports and sea ports.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack: 

• have a clear exit plan in case there's a security incident
• be alert to possible threats
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the media for threats

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Sexual assault and violent crime

Travellers may experience  sexual assault , other  assault  and  robbery .

Be extra careful in tourist spots such as Khao San Road in Bangkok and the night-time entertainment zones in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Be aware of drink-spiking. Don't drink homemade or local cocktails. They can contain narcotics or poison. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Never leave your drink unattended.

Stick with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

Get urgent medical attention if you think you or someone else has been drugged.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get immediate medical attention.

Under Thai law, courts will only accept the results of a medical examination from some government hospitals. After you've been examined by a government hospital, you can receive medical attention at a private hospital. Please contact the Australian Embassy Bangkok, Consulate-General Phuket, Consulate Chang Mai or Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra for assistance.

• Partying safely

Petty crime

Money and passports have been stolen from budget hotel and hostel rooms, and from bags on public transport. Thieves also target luggage stored on trains and below buses.

Bags have been snatched by thieves on motorcycles, or sliced open with razor blades. 

To reduce your risk of theft:

• don't leave valuables in luggage stowed under buses or away from you on trains
• be wary of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for:

• scuba diving
• elephant safaris
• bungee jumping

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Thailand experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

Severe weather events are likely to disrupt transport, electricity and communications.

To stay safe during severe weather:

• check media and weather reports
• check in with your tour operator
• don't enter areas affected by flooding or landslides

If there is a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media and other local sources of information
• Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Storms and floods

Severe storms and widespread seasonal flooding can occur without warning. This includes flash floods.

The wet season in north and central Thailand is from May to October.

In Koh Samui and the south-east of the peninsula, the wet season is from November to March.

• Thai Meteorological Department
• Mekong River Commission  — flood levels for the Mekong River

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes occur in Thailand.

Tsunamis are more likely in Thailand because of the risk of earthquakes. 

Check with the  US Tsunami Warning Centre  for updates on seismic activity and tsunamis.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

If you're visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires COVID-19 testing (RAT or PCR test) for entry, you'll need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand. The insurance will need to provide cover for COVID-19 treatment.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers, including in terms of health and travel disruptions
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Thailand. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Get medical advice before buying medicine in Thailand. Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Medications

Health risks

Insect-borne illnesses.

Zika virus  is a risk in Thailand. If you are pregnant, defer non-essential travel to affected areas. Speak to your doctor before you travel. Several cases have been reported, including in Bangkok.

The Department of Health's  Zika virus bulletin  has advice for all travellers on how to reduce Zika virus risks. There's no vaccine for Zika virus.

Malaria  is a risk throughout the year in rural areas. The worst affected areas are near the borders with Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. 

Dengue  occurs in Thailand. It's common during the rainy season:

• November to March in Koh Samui and the south-east of Thailand
• May to October in the rest of Thailand, including Phuket

Dengue peaks in July and August although it is prevalent throughout the year . There's no vaccine or specific treatment for dengue.

Other insect-borne diseases include:

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis
• Infectious diseases

Animals in parts of Thailand can carry  rabies .

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

• other animals

Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys, even if you're encouraged to.

If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible.

Smoke haze and air pollution

Thailand has high levels of air pollution. It can reach hazardous levels. Bangkok and Chiang Mai can be particularly bad. 

Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. 

Smoke haze is an issue across the north and north-east of Thailand from March to April.

Check air quality levels on the  World Air Quality Index .

Get advice from your doctor before you travel. 

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities varies . 

In an emergency, we recommend you contact an ambulance on 1669.

Private hospitals in major cities have high standards of medical care. Services can be limited in other areas.

Hospitals and doctors often need to confirm your insurance before they'll treat you, even in an emergency. Otherwise you may need to pay cash up-front. Costs can be very high.

Hospitals in Bangkok and other large cities can treat serious illnesses and accidents. In other areas, you may need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Decompression chambers are located near popular dive sites in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic and sex-change operations, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical establishments can be poor. Serious and life-threatening complications can result.

Some hospitals and clinics have refused to compensate patients:

• who aren't satisfied with the results of cosmetic surgery
• who are harmed during surgery
• who die during surgery

Do your research. Choose your medical service providers with care.

Don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed , the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

Possession of even small quantities of drugs for recreational purposes can lead to long jail sentences and deportation.

Thai authorities may conduct spot-checks for illegal drugs in tourist areas.

Travellers have been targeted for narcotic tests. Under Thai law, authorities have the right to demand urine samples from people suspected of taking illegal drugs.

If you're asked to submit a urine sample, ask to do it at a police station. You can also ask to contact the Tourist Police. Call 1155 for English-speaking officers.

Private recreational use of cannabis is legal if the THC content is below 0.2% in weight. Cannabis use in public places remains illegal, and smoking outside is considered a public nuisance, and offenders risk fines and arrest. It is still illegal to sell or supply any extracts of cannabis containing more than 0.2% of THC.

Follow directions from local authorities.

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy is illegal.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes, e-baraku, and other related vaporisers, including refills, are prohibited. You can't import or transfer them through Thailand, even for personal use.

Producing or selling these items is illegal. You face either 10 years of imprisonment or a fine up to THB1 million, or both.

Penalties for breaking the law can be severe.

These penalties can also apply to anyone aged under 18 years who is subject to Thai juvenile judicial processes. Penalties can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.

The death penalty can apply to:

• attempted murder
• crimes against the state, including treason
• some offences against the monarchy

Insulting the monarchy, or defacing images of the monarchy - including on a bank note bearing the King's image - can lead to prison terms of up to 15 years.

Take care not to cause offence when posting, commenting or liking items about the monarchy, including on social media.

In Thailand, it's illegal to:

• travel without carrying identification
• gamble - other than at a few major race tracks
• make a false statement to police, including about an insurance claim

It is also illegal to smoke on beaches in tourist areas, including:

• Prachuap Khiri Khan

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Thai-Australian dual nationals may be liable to complete military conscription.

If you're a dual national, contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Thailand  before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Respect local customs and take care to not offend. Deliberately ignoring local customs can cause grave offence.

Do not show the soles of your feet or touch the top of a person's head. These are insulting in Thai culture.

If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australian tourists can get a visa exemption for:

• up to 30 days, if you arrive through one of the international airports
• up to 15 days, if you enter through a land border (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year)

For longer stays, or if you're travelling for reasons other than tourism, you'll need to apply for a visa before you travel.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or consulate of Thailand, the  Royal Thai Embassy Canberra  or Royal Thai Consulate-General Sydney . See  the official website of the Tourism Authority of Thailand  for the latest details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Visas overstays

If you overstay your visa, you'll need to pay a fine before you can leave. You can also be:

• banned from re-entering Thailand

Thai authorities can blacklist you, which means you can never return to Thailand.

Penalties for not paying the fine include long prison sentences. Conditions at Immigration Detention Centres are harsh.

• Thai Immigration Bureau

Border measures

International passengers can transit Suvarnabhumi Airport , Bangkok.

You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry. Clarify entry requirements with your airline,  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or your nearest Thai Embassy. 

Travellers are responsible for all COVID-19 treatment expenses if their medical insurance does not provide adequate coverage for COVID-19 illness. 

Departure from Thailand

Travellers should refer to the relevant airline or travel provider for information about departing Thailand. 

• Royal Thai Embassy , Canberra
• Thai government's Facebook page

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Don't give your passport to third parties - like a jet ski or motorcycle rental businesses - as a guarantee. Companies may hold on to the passport and ask for payment for damages.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).

You can convert Australian dollars for THB in tourist areas, major cities and towns.

ATMs are available in cities and regional centres.

Most hotels, restaurants and higher-end shops accept international credit cards.

Card skimming occurs. See  Safety

Local travel

Driver's permit.

To drive a car or motorcycle in Thailand, you'll need a valid Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.

To drive a motorbike, you'll need a valid motorcycle licence. Some rental companies will tell you otherwise.

You are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Don't drive any vehicles not covered by your Australian licence.

The  Department of Land Transport  issues Thai driver’s licences. Contact them to confirm:

• your eligibility
• what documents you need to apply

The legal driving age in Thailand is 18.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Thailand than in Australia.

Thailand has one of the highest traffic-related fatality rates in the world. Motorcyclists are most at risk.

Road accidents are common, including in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. 

Driving in Thailand is dangerous due to:

• reckless passing
• ignoring traffic laws

Be extra careful during holidays, such as Songkran (Thai New Year). Alcohol use and congestion are worse during these times.

Don't drink and drive.

If you're walking, use overhead walkways. Look in both directions before crossing streets, even at marked crossways.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Under Thai law, motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet. However, hire companies or motorcycle taxis rarely provide helmets. You may need to shop around to hire a helmet.

Australians are regularly injured or die in motorbike accidents in Thailand. Alcohol is often involved.

If you're in an accident, police may detain or arrest you until compensation is agreed. This can often cost 1000s of dollars.

Many vehicle hire companies don't have insurance.

If you have a motorcycle accident, you could be responsible for any damages, loss or costs associated with injury to others. The embassy can't help you negotiate on compensation demands.

Lawyers who can represent you are available from:

• Australian Embassy and Consulates-General in Thailand
• the Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

If you plan to hire a motorbike, make sure:

• your insurance policy covers it
• you have a valid motorcycle licence
• the hiring company has comprehensive and third-party insurance
• you know the excess you would need to pay if you have an accident
• you always wear a helmet

Don't drink and drive, or drink and ride.

Never give your passport as a deposit or guarantee.

Taxis, tuktuks and motorcycle taxis

Official, metered taxis are generally safe and convenient. Be alert to possible  scams  and safety risks.

Be aware of apparently friendly taxi or tuktuk drivers who offer you cheap tours. They will take you to shops where they receive a commission. You may be overcharged or sold worthless goods or gems.

Before you get in an unmetered taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi, agree on the fare and the route.

Make sure your bags are secure when you're travelling in a tuktuk or motorcycle taxi.

Never put yourself in danger by confronting a taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi driver. Call the Tourist Police on 1155 if you need help. 

Be careful when opening taxi doors. Look out for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

Ferry and speedboat travel can be dangerous. Serious incidents involving tourists have occurred and people have died.

If you plan on  travelling by boat  or ferry:

• check safety standards are in place
• check there is enough safety equipment for everyone
• wear your life jacket at all times
• avoid travelling after dark
• don't get on overcrowded boats

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Thailand's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Bangkok

181 Wireless Road Lumphini, Pathumwan Bangkok, Thailand. 10330 Phone: (+66 2) 344 6300 Fax: (+66 2) 344 6593 Website:  thailand.embassy.gov.au   Email: [email protected]   Facebook:  Australia in Thailand Twitter:  @AusAmbBKK

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Phuket

6th Floor CCM Complex 77/77 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Road (Bypass Road) Muang Phuket, Thailand, 83000 Phone: (+66 76) 317 700 Fax: (+66 76) 317 743 Website:  phuket.consulate.gov.au E-mail:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Thailand?

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Thailand set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Royal Thai Embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

You should also read TravelHealthPro’s general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Thailand

If you are visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires an RT-PCR test for entry, you will need to buy medical insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment before you arrive in Thailand.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from when you enter Thailand.

You could be refused entry to Thailand if your passport is damaged or has pages missing.

If you’re a dual national, to avoid problems at immigration, you must leave Thailand on the same passport you used to enter.

If you need to renew or apply for a new British passport, see overseas British passport applications .

Visa requirements

British passport holders arriving by air or land can enter Thailand for 30 days without a visa (visa exemption).

If you intend to stay longer (for work, study or other reasons) you need a visa before you travel.

For more information on visas or entry requirements, contact the Royal Thai Embassy or local Immigration Office.

Overstaying your visa

If you stay beyond the period of your visa, you will be fined 500 Thai baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. You risk being:

• held in detention
• deported at your own expense
• banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years

Conditions in detention centres can be harsh.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro .

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Thailand . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Importing cigarettes

It is illegal to import more than 200 cigarettes per person into Thailand. This is enforced at customs on arrival. If you go over the limit, you could be fined 10 times the value. Your cigarettes will likely be confiscated.

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This website is managed by Siam Legal International - a law firm in Thailand

Thailand Travel Updates

Push for Visa-Free Entry for Indian Visitors in Thailand

Thailand’s tourism officials have pushed the government to start talks about a long-term visa-free agreement between Thailand and India. 

As of February 18, visitors from India ranked fifth in terms of arrivals, totaling around 260,000 tourists. Somsong Sachaphimukh, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, believes that extending the visa waiver for an additional two years after its scheduled end on May 10, 2024, will keep this positive trend going. With India expected to overtake Germany’s economy by 2027, Thailand sees this as a prime chance to attract more premium tourists, and it is hoped that a long-term, mutual visa-free program between Thailand and India could be beneficial to boost tourism and trade for both countries. 

Currently, flights between Thailand and India are on the rise, despite being limited to just six major Indian cities. This agreement would convince airlines to increase their flight services to take advantage of the increased traffic, benefitting both the businesses and the country.

Travelers from India might spend between 60,000 and 100,000 baht for a seven-day trip in Thailand. This market also holds promise for business meetings, incentive trips, and wedding ceremonies, with each potentially costing between 50 and 100 million baht.

Sachaphimuk pointed out the Indian market’s vast potential, primarily from its large young workforce aged 25 to 40, representing about 40% of India’s total population.

Kazakhs’ Visa-Free Period Extended

The Prime Minister’s cabinet has decided to prolong the visa-free entry for Kazakh tourists by an additional six months. The visa exemption program for visitors from Kazakhstan will now continue from March 1 through August 31.

Launched last year, this policy aimed to boost tourism with a planned duration of September 25 to February 29. It was a success, attracting a record 172,000 visitors from Kazakhstan to Thailand.

Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, noted that each Kazakh visitor spends up to 75,000 baht on average, compared to the general visitor spending of about 45,000 baht. This spending trend highlights the significant economic impact Kazakh tourists have on Thailand and provides a clear justification for the extension.

Travel to Thailand in July 2022

Thailand has removed the requirement for Thailand Pass registration for all travelers.

Travelers, both Thais, and foreigners entering Thailand, will only be required to show Proof of Vaccination or COVID-19 test results.

For vaccinated adults and their children, proof of vaccination of the parent or guardian is required. Children are not required to complete a test.

For unvaccinated adults and their children, you will be required to show proof of a negative result of the RT PCR test or professional ATK test taken within 72 hours before traveling.

The Thai government recommends having comprehensive travel insurance for your travel to Thailand. AXA Thailand Insurance offers the best travel insurance and it is highly recommended.

Required Documents for Travel to Thailand July 2022

Please have the following documents ready.

• Visa (if required)
• Buy Thailand Travel Insurance
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Booking Confirmation or Thailand Address

Incorrect documents will delay the entry screening to Thailand.

Buy Your Insurance Now

US Expats Tax and Trust Free Seminar and Consultations

For American Expats in Thailand , you may participate in Tax Seminar and Consultations in Hua Hin. For more information, please check this Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/events/370778121756657/

Important Information You Need to Know Before Purchasing Thailand Pass Insurance

Siam Legal has received reports from potential clients that some hospitals are creating difficulties for them until full payment is made for their medical expenses. Also, foreigners have allegedly been threatened with lawsuits for not settling their medical bills before being discharged. Using out-of-country policies can be problematic. We firmly recommend using insurance carriers headquartered inside Thailand with proper coverage to avoid any undesirable outcomes.

Siam Legal International, a premier law firm in Thailand, strongly recommends purchasing the proper insurance and therefore endorses AXA Insurance for your travel to Thailand insurance needs.

HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT POINTS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE PURCHASING THAILAND PASS INSURANCE

• Please carefully review the details of any insurance before purchasing to understand if the policy has adequate coverage. Cheap policies with inadequate levels of cover can lead to significant personal liability and scenarios where policyholders incur hundreds of thousands of baht in out of pocket medical expenses are not uncommon. There are significant financial risks to being underinsured during your stay in Thailand.
• Those policies do not cover medical costs from accidents (like motorcycle accidents) or common unexpected illnesses (common fever or food poisoning). Simply pay a few baht more for the peace of mind that comes from having proper coverage.
• AXA covers medical expenses (outpatient and inpatient) due to accidents and illnesses, including COVID-19. Other insurance coverage might not.
• AXA also covers telemedicine and teleconsultation which may be required during the quarantine period of any traveler.

Thai hospital staff are familiar with AXA coverage which should prevent any inconvenience during hospital admission or medical treatment from your hotel room. AXA Thailand also offers 24/7 local support during your stay in Thailand.

You can purchase your COVID-19 Thailand Pass insurance today at the link below.

https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

COVID Visa Extension To Continue Until March 25

Foreigners will now have until March 25, 2022, to extend their special COVID extension stamp, as announced by the Bureau of Immigration.

The COVID extension was supposed to end on January 25 but has been extended. The visa relief or extension grants 60 days of stay to those who apply.

It has been reported that:

• If you have 15 days visa-on-arrival, you cannot have a COVID extension
• If you have a 60-day Tourist Visa, you can have a COVID extension if necessary
• If you have a 30 days Visa Exemption, you can have a COVID extension if necessary
• If you have a Non-immigrant B, ED, O (Volunteer), for example, you can no longer have a COVID extension

Please note that this extension of stay is not automatic, you must apply for this at your local immigration office and it will be at the discretion of the officer to approve the application.

Thailand Pass Update: Test and Go Reopens February 1, 2022

The Thailand Pass Test & Go application has reopened for 2022. Now foreign travelers may enter the country using the Test & Go program. Under this program, fully vaccinated travelers including unvaccinated children from low-risk countries will only need to stay for 1 night in a Quarantine or SHA Plus Hotel while they wait for the COVID test result that was taken upon arrival. The second COVID test will be taken at any of the government-approved test centers in Thailand.

Travelers are required to have documentation such as a copy of a passport, flight booking, vaccination certificate, hotel reservation, pre-paid COVID test, and COVID-19 travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 50,000 US dollars.

Travelers are also required to undergo an RT-PCR COVID test within 72 hours before traveling to Thailand.

To apply for the Thailand Pass Test & Go Program, travelers will have to:

1. Register at the official Thailand Pass website 2. Input personal details 3. Upload the required documents 4. Receive a confirmation email after registration 5. Wait for approval which normally takes 5 to 7 days.

Thailand Pass Test & Go is now open again for travel to Thailand.

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Phuket Sandbox and COVID Test FAQs

Who gets the “free” second covid testing.

Travelers approved before the Thailand Pass suspension and who arrive in the Kingdom from December 24 onwards must do a second RT-PCR test, shouldered by the government, on the 5th or 6th day at a government-approved medical facility.

The Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) mentioned in the December 24 briefing that travelers will have to fill in a port health letter upon arrival at the airport, which will be signed by a border control officer and certified by the Department of Disease Control. The border control officer will then provide you with a copy and a QR code, stating the venue for your second RT-PCR COVID-19 test at no additional cost.

You will present the port health letter to your hotel, which will key your records onto the COVID-19 Surveillance Tracking and Evaluation platform, and arrange for your first COVID-19 test. On day 5 or 6, go to your designated laboratory center for your second RT-PCR COVID-19.

I already have a COVID test appointment for Phuket Sandbox, do I need to register again?

It depends on your COVID test provider. You can contact the hotel or the laboratory that you registered prior.

For those who are coming to Phuket who had already registered through www.thailandpsas.com for a single swab test before the announcement of the new guidelines, you can still add a second swab test by logging in to the account you used for registration:

• Choose your booking details and click the "Edit" icon.
• Click "Additional Swab Appointment".
• Pay the fee

Can I travel to other places in Thailand even if only the Phuket Sandbox is available?

You need to complete a 7-night stay in Phuket before being allowed to travel to other areas of Thailand. Once you receive your first negative test result in Phuket, you are able to travel freely around Thailand’s largest island. After you receive your second negative test result and have completed a 7-night stay in Phuket, you are able to travel to any other area of Thailand.

With the suspension, are there changes to the number of quarantine days?

Seven (7) days quarantine applies to travelers who have a certificate of vaccination to confirm that they have been fully vaccinated with an approved vaccine for at least 14 days before traveling to Thailand. 10 days quarantine applies to travelers who do not have a certificate of vaccination. 14 days quarantine applies to travelers from African countries other than the previously designated high-risk countries, which are constantly being reviewed.

Can we change our flight schedule?

Flight changes are permitted within 72 hours from the original flight time registered in the Thailand Pass without the need to apply for a new Thailand Pass QR Code, provided that all other required documents remain valid or updated.

How to Book COVID Test for Phuket Sandbox

Starting December 23, 2021, Thailand will now require two RT-PCR tests for those entering Phuket.

The first test will be conducted at Phuket International Airport while the second test on the 5th day will be conducted at the test centers around Phuket.

• Provide flight details and hotel information. You will be asked for your flight and accommodation details.
• Input your personal information like your gender, date of birth, country of origin, and Passport Number.
• Choose your swab test locations. Because the first swab test will be conducted at the Phuket International Airport, you can only choose the location for the second swab test. The swab test date will be automatically shown from the details you input in Step 1.
• Pay the fee . The fee for the RT PCR tests is 4200 THB.

Note: For those who have already registered for a single swab test before the announcement of the new guidelines, you can still add a second swab test by logging in to the account you used for registration:

• Choose your booking details and click the “Edit” icon.
• Click “Additional Swab Appointment”.
• Pay the fee.

New Entry Requirements for October 1

• Group 1: Vaccinated travelers from countries not eligible for the Sandbox program need to do a 7 days quarantine.
• Group 2: Vaccinated travelers from all countries arriving in Bangkok will be subject to a mandatory quarantine of 7 days.
• Group 3: Not vaccinated travelers arriving by air/sea must undergo mandatory quarantine for 10 days.
• Group 4: Not vaccinated travelers arriving by land must undergo mandatory quarantine for 14 days.

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What to Know About China’s Export Dominance

From cars to solar panels to furniture, China is using lavish bank lending and enormous investments in robotics to cement its global leadership in manufacturing.

By Keith Bradsher

Reporting from Beijing and Tianjin, China

China’s car shipments to foreign markets have quintupled in the past four years. Its solar panels dominate global markets. Even exports in labor-intensive industries like furniture making, which China was once expected to lose to lower-wage countries, are surging.

American and European leaders have become increasingly vocal that a flood of Chinese exports is swamping their markets. Developing countries like India and Brazil are joining them in starting to put limits on purchases from China. Rich and poor countries alike fear that many of their factories may need to close, unable to compete with newer, more automated ones in China.

But China’s manufacturing sector is so strong that its export push will be difficult to counter. China already installs more factory robots than the rest of the world combined. China’s low-cost supply chains produce almost every imaginable part. And Xi Jinping , the country’s top leader, is pushing the country’s banks to lend more money for the construction of even more factories.

At the same time, Chinese companies are finding ways to bypass trade barriers in the West. They are breaking shipments into small parcels each worth little enough that they are exempt from tariffs. Chinese companies have increased exports to the West through indirect routes in Southeast Asia and Mexico, sidestepping tariffs on goods that come directly from China.

What are China’s leading exports?

No category of China’s exports has attracted more attention than cars. In just four years, China has grown from an also-ran to become the world’s largest car exporter, with almost five million cars exported last year.

China’s electric car exports have grabbed the most attention, but three-quarters of its exported cars have gasoline engines. As electric cars have gobbled up market share in China, automakers have shipped their excess gasoline-powered cars to markets like Russia, where Chinese cars have captured more than half the market , and Mexico.

China has begun building its own fleet of 170 transoceanic car-carrying ships to transport its glut of cars to distant markets several thousand at a time. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the world’s shipyards were delivering only four of these vessels each year.

Ships themselves have also emerged as a big Chinese export, more than doubling in the first three months of this year compared with the same period last year. The United States began an investigation on Wednesday of whether China was using unfair trade practices to expand its shipbuilding industry.

Solar panels and their key component, solar wafers, are among China’s fastest-growing exports as measured by quantity. Wafer exports nearly doubled last year. But because solar product prices nearly halved, the total value of China’s solar exports actually edged down slightly last year.

The European Union has opened an investigation that could result in limits on Chinese solar exports. The United States has been considering tighter rules on solar imports as well.

Why is China pushing exports so hard?

China is trying to export its way out of a housing crisis. Construction of apartment buildings used to be the motor of China’s economy. But a decades-long housing bubble burst and apartment prices plummeted, leading to a sharp slowdown in construction. Dozens of real estate developers have run out of money.

Beijing’s hope is that strong overseas sales of manufactured goods, together with heavy investment in the factories to make those goods, will help offset the country’s housing debacle. The early signs are that Beijing’s bet is paying off.

The economy grew at an annual pace of 6.6 percent in the first three months of this year, faster than expected. Manufacturing investments and exports led the way.

How much is Beijing helping its manufacturers?

China’s state-directed banks are shoveling money into manufacturing businesses. Loans at low interest rates mean that companies can afford to build factories with lots of robots and invest heavily in research and development.

The net increase each year in lending to industry has been enormous. It was $83 billion in 2019. By last year, the annual increase in industrial loans had skyrocketed to $670 billion.

Big Chinese cities are also vying to assist local manufacturers. Shenzhen is helping electric car producers, like BYD , to obtain export insurance, buy ships and set up overseas research and development centers. Tianjin, a vast port near Beijing, is upgrading its docks and streamlining customs procedures.

The export boom comes as China already produces almost a third of the world’s manufactured goods — more than the United States, Japan, Germany , South Korea and Britain combined, according to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.

Can China overcome trade barriers?

European leaders in Brussels have recently taken preliminary steps toward trade restrictions on Chinese goods. In addition to solar products, they are focusing on electric cars, wind turbines and medical devices.

The Biden administration is following up on the Trump administration’s trade actions. On Wednesday, President Biden called for sharp increases in tariffs on steel and aluminum from China.

But Beijing and Chinese companies have had years to learn from President Trump’s imposition of tariffs on nearly half of China’s exports to the United States. China’s precautions may make its exports very hard to stop.

China has concluded 21 free-trade pacts with 29 countries and territories in recent years. Many of them, like Vietnam and Thailand, are countries the West has also been wooing as it tries to encourage a shift in global manufacturing away from China.

Because of its trade deals, China has sold those countries many more components of every sort that are built into goods bound for the West. China’s exports to Southeast Asia have leaped 75 percent over the past four years, according to China’s General Administration of Customs.

Chinese companies like Shein have also become adept at sending packages directly to homes in the United States, avoiding tariffs. The United States allows residents to import up to $800 a day worth of goods without paying tariffs, or nearly $300,000 a year.

Senator Bill Cassidy, Republican of Louisiana, has begun a legislative push for the United States to match China’s limit on tariff-exempt imports, which is $6.50.

Li You contributed research.

Keith Bradsher is the Beijing bureau chief for The Times. He previously served as bureau chief in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Detroit and as a Washington correspondent. He has lived and reported in mainland China through the pandemic. More about Keith Bradsher