Doing Business in Thailand

Country overview

Located in south-east Asia and just 15 degrees north of the equator, Thailand, covering an area of nearly 514,000 sq. km (200,000 sq. miles), is almost equal in size to Spain. It is bordered by Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia, the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos) and Malaysia, and comprises almost 2,500 km of coastline on the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman sea.

Thailand is the world’s 32^nd largest economy and the second largest economy in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), accounting for 17% of ASEAN Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The UK is one of the leading European Union (EU) investors in Thailand with UK companies operating across the Thai economy. The rewards of doing business in Thailand can be considerable, but it takes time to develop the necessary business relationships. Thailand is home to over 50,000 British residents.

Benefits to UK businesses exporting to Thailand include a growing affluent middle class, well-developed infrastructure and the government’s pro-investment policies. Thailand is ranked in top 20% of countries listed in the World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing Business Survey’, and is also a hub for accessing opportunities in Greater Mekong sub-region, including Laos, Cambodia, Burma and southern China.

About this guide

This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to other sources of help.

The main objective of this Doing Business in Thailand Guide is to provide you with basic knowledge about Thailand; an overview of its economy, business culture, potential opportunities and to identify the main issues associated with initial research, market entry, risk management and cultural and language issues.

We do not pretend to provide all the answers in the guide, but novice exporters in particular will find it a useful starting point. Further assistance is available from the Department for International Trade team in Thailand. Full contact details are available in this guide.

To help your business succeed in Thailand we have carefully selected a variety of essential service providers as ‘Market Experts’ Click Here

The guide is available in 4 formats:

• this website

• a ‘free’ downloadable 'mobile device-friendly’ app – available from the iTunes App Store and Google Play store

• a full colour hard-copy brochure (to order your copy please Click Here)

• PDF download / e-flipbook (scroll down to see the download information below)

About IOE&IT

An Introduction to the Institute of Export & International Trade

Established in 1935, the Institute of Export & International Trade is the professional membership body representing and supporting the interests of everyone involved in importing, exporting and international trade. Offering a unique range of individual and business membership benefits and a world renowned suite of qualifications and training, the Institute is the leading authority in best practice and competence for businesses trading globally.

To view other videos, please visit the IOE&IT YouTube Channel.

For more information visit: www.export.org.uk