,"On August 6, 2025, Thailand officially submitted notification G/SPS/N/THA/232/Rev.2/Add.1 to the WTO’s Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures. The addendum introduces Notification No. 459, targeting imports of foods at risk of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). This update mandates revised checkpoint definitions and stricter import controls to protect public health. The update defines ""Import checkpoint"", improving regulatory clarity. This facilitates better oversight over food products entering Thailand, especially ones prone to BSE contamination. Regulatory Impact Meat exports—particularly fresh meat or preparations subject to prion risks—are now governed by more stringent protocols. Thailand’s tightened entry conditions demand updated compliance infrastructure from importers, including documentation and sanitary certification. Trade and Compliance Implications Exporters should:Identify designated checkpoints for their goods Ensure full compliance with sanitary standards and documentation Monitor MOPH notifications for any future revisions Submission of Comments Stakeholders—including exporters, trade bodies, health authorities, and food safety advocates—are invited to submit feedback through the Ministry of Public Health, adhering to Thailand’s SPS engagement mechanisms. This addendum underscores Thailand’s commitment to public health security amid BSE risks. By reinforcing import checkpoints and tightening meat safety rules, the country strengthens its ability to prevent prion disease exposure through food channels, while also aligning with international best practices."
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