Taking Buddha image out of Thailand

The export of Buddha images and statues is regulated by the Department of Fine Arts. A new piece can be exported by requesting a certificate.

I left Bangkok last Friday with a group of people. One women had a marble statue that was brand new - 6 inches tall. Last year when she went she was told that she could only bring 1 out of the country and it had to be 6 inches or under. They took her Buddha and said the new law is 5 inches and under. She cried, her kids cried but they were not giving in. She will never see that expensive item again. My advice, find a seller in the US> Swatdee Ka

I just came back from phuket a week ago - recently been to koh samui 2 yrs back and had no problem.  However my wooden buddha was seized at phuket international - by a seriously rude customs official - who threatened me.  Handover to government or be fined and imprisoned.  I had no idea I needed a licence - the travel agents don't tell you and the stores don't...buy buy buy  I paid over 2000 baht.  I was and still am heart broken.  Like I say, we uplift their economy and then they take it back.  In the words of Buddha (having read some of his works), I don't think they act like his teachings!!!  I was extremely angry at this......