“Ekniti” Announces Cabinet Approval to Increase Excise Tax on Imported Electric Vehicles

Today (3 November 2026) at 11:15 AM at Monthathip Hall International Convention Center, Udon Thani Province, Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, announced the outcome of the Cabinet meeting. He stated that the Cabinet has approved an increase in the excise tax on electric vehicles (EVs)—specifically those not manufactured domestically and not utilizing locally sourced components—from 10% to 35%. Similarly, the excise tax on REV (electric motor-driven) vehicles will be raised from 15% to 35%. These changes will take effect starting January 1, 2027. The primary objective is to support Thailand’s development as a production and export hub for electric vehicles, while safeguarding the existing automotive supply chain, which provides a significant number of jobs for Thai workers, and ensuring fair conditions for operators who have established local manufacturing plants and are currently facing the impact of a rapid influx of imported electric vehicles.

Mr. Ekniti added that the Cabinet has also tasked the Excise Department with negotiating special tax structure terms for new investors interested in establishing operations or expanding their production bases in Thailand. Currently, several foreign investors have already begun discussions to seek these benefits.