Foreign Investment
in Thailand
Thailand offers foreign investors access to one of Southeast Asia’s most established business environments, supported by regional connectivity, developed infrastructure, and a broad range of investment opportunities.
At the same time, foreign investment may be subject to specific ownership restrictions, licensing requirements, regulatory obligations, and investment-promotion conditions depending on the nature of the business.
Understanding the legal and regulatory framework from the outset is an important part of planning a successful investment in Thailand.
Why Thailand?
For foreign investors, Thailand offers a combination of regional connectivity, established infrastructure, access to Southeast Asian markets, and a structured investment-promotion framework.
Strategic ASEAN Location
Located at the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is well positioned for access to ASEAN markets and other major economies across the region.
Established Infrastructure
Thailand is supported by extensive transport, logistics, industrial, and digital infrastructure, helping businesses connect with domestic and regional markets.
Investment Promotion Opportunities
The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) offers tax and non-tax incentives for eligible activities and projects, subject to specific qualifications and conditions.
Common Investment
Frameworks
Foreign investment in Thailand can involve different legal and regulatory pathways depending on the investor, business activity, ownership structure, and eligibility for investment promotion.
Foreign Business Act (FBA)
The Foreign Business Act is a key framework governing foreign participation in certain business activities in Thailand. Depending on the activity and ownership structure, a Foreign Business Licence or other permission may be required.
Official Information →Board of Investment (BOI)
Thailand’s Board of Investment promotes eligible projects and activities through tax and non-tax incentives, subject to specific qualification requirements and conditions.
Official Information →Treaty-Based Frameworks
Certain investors may qualify for alternative treatment under international treaties or agreements. For example, qualifying U.S. investors may benefit from the U.S.–Thailand Treaty of Amity, although restrictions and exclusions still apply.
Official Information →Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT)
IEAT supports industrial and manufacturing investment within designated industrial estates. Eligible businesses may receive certain tax and non-tax privileges, including land ownership rights, foreign specialist permissions, and other benefits subject to applicable conditions.
Official Information →Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC)
The EEC promotes investment in Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao through special economic development zones and investment incentives. Eligible projects may receive tax and non-tax benefits, subject to location, business activity, and approval requirements.
Official Information →
A Typical Foreign Investment
Journey
Foreign investment projects can follow different paths depending on the business activity, ownership structure, regulatory requirements, and investment objectives.
Define the
Investment
Clarify the proposed business activity, ownership structure, investment objectives, and operational requirements.
Review the
Legal Framework
Identify the foreign ownership rules, licensing requirements, investment-promotion schemes, and other regulations that may apply.
Establish the
Business Structure
Complete the appropriate corporate registrations, applications, approvals, and other formal requirements for the selected structure.
Maintain
Compliance
Address ongoing corporate, regulatory, tax, employment, licensing, and reporting obligations as applicable.
The specific steps and requirements will vary depending on the nature of the investment and the circumstances of each project.
Planning an Investment in Thailand?
Every investment structure is different. Contact CandiDuck to discuss your business objectives and determine the appropriate next steps.
The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice. Laws, regulations and investment incentives may change. Professional advice should be obtained based on the specific circumstances of each investment.