Customs Officials Seize Matcha Shipment at Chiang Mai Airport
Authorities at Chiang Mai International Airport confiscated 100 kilograms of undeclared matcha green tea powder from a passenger arriving from Japan.
According to a report by Khaosod English, customs officials at Chiang Mai International Airport intercepted a significant quantity of undeclared goods on October 19, 2026. During a routine inspection of luggage belonging to a Thai passenger arriving from Japan, authorities discovered 972 packages of matcha green tea powder.
The total weight of the seized shipment is 100 kilograms, with an estimated market value exceeding 500,000 baht. The Customs Department confirmed the seizure, noting that the items were found concealed within four suitcases.
For travelers and residents, this incident serves as a reminder of the strict regulations governing the importation of commercial quantities of food products into Thailand. While personal items are generally permitted, bringing in large volumes of goods without proper declaration or commercial import documentation can lead to immediate seizure and potential legal consequences.
At this stage, details regarding the specific charges against the passenger or the intended use of the matcha remain to be confirmed by the authorities. Travelers are encouraged to consult official Customs Department guidelines before importing large quantities of goods to ensure compliance with local regulations and avoid similar complications.
