Thailand Wagyu Market Overview
Thailand is a fast-growing market for Japanese wagyu, driven primarily by Bangkok's expanding luxury hotel and fine dining sector. International hotel groups operating in Bangkok — including properties along the Chao Phraya and in the CBD — are active buyers of A4 and A5 wagyu for their Japanese and steakhouse restaurant programmes. The Thailand market also has a growing yakiniku restaurant segment, creating demand for chuck roll, rump cap, and other yakiniku cuts at A4 grade.
Thailand's MFN tariff on frozen beef is 50%, but importers can benefit from significantly reduced rates under the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA) by filing a JTEPA certificate of origin.
Import Requirements for Thailand
Imports are regulated by DLD. File JTEPA origin documentation to access preferential tariff treatment where applicable.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Import permit | DLD Thailand · Required per shipment |
| Veterinary Health Certificate | MAFF Japan · Required for all shipments |
| JMGA Grading Certificate | JMGA · Individual carcass number · Required |
| Import tariff | 50% MFN / reduced JTEPA · JTEPA certificate required for reduction |
| Cold chain | -18°C frozen · 0–4°C chilled · Maintained throughout |
Recommended Grades & Cuts for Thailand
Bangkok luxury F&B and yakiniku drive the following combinations:
| Grade | Cut | Est. Landed (USD/kg) | Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| A5 | Striploin | $130–205 | Luxury hotel F&B · Fine dining |
| A5 | Ribeye | $135–215 | Premium steakhouse · Hotels |
| A4 | Striploin | $72–115 | Hotel restaurant · Steakhouse |
| A4 | Chuck Roll | $36–57 | Yakiniku · Casual dining |
| A4 | Rump Cap | $59–92 | Yakiniku · BBQ |
Pricing for Thailand Importers
Landed cost depends heavily on whether you claim the JTEPA preferential rate — confirm with your broker.
| Component | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| FOB Japan (A4 Striploin) | $67–107/kg |
| Freight (sea) | $3–6/kg |
| Import duty | 50% MFN / reduced under JTEPA |
| Handling | $1–2/kg |
| Est. Landed Cost (JTEPA) | $80–155/kg |
Contact us for current FOB Japan pricing specific to your grade, cut, and volume requirements.
Request Wholesale Price List →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the import duty on wagyu beef in Thailand?
Thailand's MFN tariff on frozen beef is 50%. Importers using a JTEPA (Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement) certificate of origin can access a significantly reduced rate. Confirm the current JTEPA rate with your customs broker.
What documents are needed to import wagyu into Thailand?
DLD import permit, Veterinary Health Certificate from MAFF Japan, JMGA grading certificate, JTEPA Certificate of Origin (for preferential rate), Commercial Invoice, and Packing List.
What wagyu grades are most popular in Thailand?
A4 is the volume grade for hotel and restaurant accounts. A5 is used by luxury hotel F&B programmes and fine dining restaurants in Bangkok. Chuck roll and rump cap at A4 are the most active cuts in the yakiniku segment.
Is Halal wagyu available for Thailand?
Thailand does not require Halal certification for wagyu beef imports. However, if you are supplying Halal-certified restaurant accounts, we can provide Halal-certified product on request.