Yes, selling homemade food in Thailand is legal under specific regulatory frameworks, but compliance with local health and business laws is mandatory. The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and local municipalities enforce hygiene standards, while the Department of Business Development (DBD) regulates commercial activities. Recent 2026 amendments to the Food Act tighten oversight for home-based vendors, requiring registration and adherence to sanitation protocols.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Thailand
- Registration and Licensing: Home-based food businesses must register with the local municipality (OrBorTor) and obtain a Food Business License under the Food Act B.E. 2522 (1979) and its 2026 amendments. Unregistered sales risk fines up to 50,000 THB or business closure.
- Hygiene and Safety Standards: Compliance with MOPH Notification No. 381 (2023) mandates food handlers to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), including proper storage, waste disposal, and pest control. Shared kitchen use is prohibited unless certified by authorities.
- Sales Channels and Taxation: Selling through social media or delivery platforms requires a VAT registration if annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million THB. Local taxes (Local Development Tax) apply to all commercial activities, with municipalities auditing compliance quarterly.