Bangkok: Customs disputes "Nikki's" claim of a 2,000 baht shirt being charged 6,000 baht, stating that the actual tax was only 2,000 baht, which was the private shipping service fee.

According to Thai News Agency, the issue gained attention when Nikki Nachat Chantaphan, a well-known actress and TV host, posted a video on her Facebook account alleging an overcharge. She recounted that a friend had sent her a T-shirt from overseas valued at 2,000 baht, but upon delivery in Thailand, she was billed over 6,000 baht. Her sarcastic comment about the tax collection system sparked widespread online debate.

The Suvarnabhumi Airport Customs Office responded to clarify the situation. They explained that the total charge of 6,357 baht comprised two parts: customs duties and taxes of 2,184 baht and private shipping service fees of 4,173 baht. The shipping fees were attributed to the internal service fee of the company handling the parcel.

The customs office elaborated that the duties were calculated based on international standards using the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) method, which includes the price of goods, insurance, and shipping costs. The higher overall charge was a result of the parcel being shipped via "Air Express," a faster but costlier method. Suvarnabhumi Customs affirmed that their assessment was lawful and accurate, and they invited Nikki Nachat to review the detailed calculations if needed.