How to Import Rice from Thailand: Step-by-Step Buyer's Guide

Complete step-by-step guide for importing rice from Thailand. Covers supplier verification, required export documentation, phytosanitary certificates, shipping Incoterms, and customs clearance at destination port. Published by MC INTERNATIONAL Export Team, April 2026.

Step 1: Define Your Rice Specification

Before contacting any Thai supplier, specify: variety (Jasmine/Hom Mali, Long Grain, Parboiled, Basmati, Glutinous, Brown), broken grain percentage (5%, 10%, 25%), moisture content (max 14%), and milling degree. West Africa: Parboiled 5-25%; Middle East: Long Grain 5% or Jasmine; Europe/Americas: Jasmine or Basmati premium retail.

Step 2: Verify Your Supplier

All Thai rice exporters must be registered with Thailand's Ministry of Commerce (DFT) and hold a rice export license. Verify: Company Registration Certificate, VAT No., Rice Export License, SGS or ISO 9001 certification. Cross-check registration at Thailand's DBD portal. MC INTERNATIONAL (Reg. 0145567003152) is a licensed, SGS-certified Thai rice exporter.

Required Export Documents

Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Phytosanitary Certificate (Thailand DoA), Certificate of Origin (Form D/A/E), SGS Quality Inspection Certificate, Fumigation Certificate. MC INTERNATIONAL provides all documents with every shipment.