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Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Foreign Company Branch in Thailand

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Q&A: Setting Up a Foreign Business in Thailand – How SiamConsult Can Help

We’ll guide you through every detail, from choosing the right business structure and registering your company name to handling all the legal documentation and obtaining the necessary licenses.

Whether you’re an established business owner looking to tap into the Thai market or a newcomer exploring this dynamic economy, we’re here to provide you with expert guidance and tailored support. Let us take you through each stage with confidence and clarity.

Contact us for further Questions!

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What is a Foreign Business License (FBL) – Explained by SiamConsult

If you’re a foreigner looking to start a business in Thailand, you may have heard about the Foreign Business License (FBL). At SiamConsult, we specialize in helping foreign investors navigate the complexities of Thai business laws, and we’re here to explain everything you need to know about the FBL in simple terms.

What is a Foreign Business License (FBL)?

The Foreign Business License is a legal requirement that allows foreigners to operate certain types of businesses in Thailand. It’s designed to regulate foreign ownership in industries where Thailand either wants to protect local businesses or where local industries aren’t yet fully developed to compete with international companies.

Without an FBL, foreigners are restricted from engaging in a wide range of business activities, especially those listed under List 2 and List 3 of the Foreign Business Act. The license grants you permission to conduct business in sectors where foreigners would otherwise be prohibited or limited.

When Do You Need an FBL?

You’ll need a Foreign Business License if your business falls under List 2 or List 3 of the Foreign Business Act. These lists include sectors where foreign ownership is either restricted or regulated. Some examples include:

  • List 2: Businesses related to national security, cultural heritage, and natural resources.

  • List 3: Sectors where Thailand believes local businesses are not yet ready to compete, such as retail, legal services, construction, and tourism.

If your business activity is listed in either of these categories, obtaining an FBL is essential to legally operate in Thailand.

What Does the FBL Process Involve?

The process for obtaining a Foreign Business License can be lengthy and complex, but that’s where we come in. Here’s how SiamConsult assists you every step of the way:

  1. Assessment: First, we’ll evaluate your business to see if it falls under a restricted category. If it does, we’ll confirm whether an FBL is required.

  2. Application Preparation: We handle the entire application process for you, including preparing all the necessary documents. This includes providing detailed information about your business, shareholders, and how your company will benefit the Thai economy.

  3. Liaising with Authorities: Your application must be submitted to the Department of Business Development (DBD), where it’s reviewed by government committees. We’ll communicate with the authorities on your behalf, making sure your application is processed efficiently and correctly.

  4. Justification: Part of the application involves demonstrating how your business will benefit Thailand, such as job creation, technology transfer, or investment in local industries. We’ll craft a strong case for your business that highlights these benefits.

  5. Follow-up and Approval: The review process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of your business. We’ll follow up with the authorities to ensure everything stays on track, and we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.

Why Work with SiamConsult?

The FBL application process can be overwhelming due to the paperwork, language barriers, and communication with Thai authorities. At SiamConsult, we make the process smooth and hassle-free by:

  • Handling all paperwork: From document preparation to final submission, we take care of everything.

  • Navigating the regulations: We ensure your business is fully compliant with Thai law, so you can focus on what matters most—running your business.

  • Providing local expertise: With years of experience working with foreign businesses, we understand the nuances of the Thai legal system and know how to position your business for approval.

How Long Does It Take to Get an FBL?

The process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the nature of your business and how efficiently the authorities process the application. While we can’t control the speed of government reviews, we can ensure that your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time, which helps avoid delays.

Contact SiamConsult for Help with Your FBL

If you’re ready to start your business in Thailand and need help obtaining a Foreign Business License, SiamConsult is here to guide you through every step of the process.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Set Up Your Company Branch in Thailand

Setting up a foreign branch or business in Thailand is complicated, but with the right guidance, it becomes manageable. At SiamConsult, we assist you every step of the way. Below are answers to some of the most common questions foreigners have about setting up a business in Thailand, including the need for a Foreign Business License (FBL).

If you decide to work with SiamConsult, we can guide you through the entire process of setting up your foreign business in Thailand. To start, it’s important to understand how the Foreign Business Act (FBA) categorizes business activities into three lists:

List 1: These businesses are completely restricted to foreigners, meaning you cannot engage in them unless Thai nationals hold the majority of ownership.

List 2: These businesses are permitted to foreigners under conditions, usually requiring majority Thai ownership and additional approval. These activities relate to national security, culture, and natural resources.

List 3: These businesses are activities where Thailand deems locals are not yet ready to compete with foreigners, and you must obtain a Foreign Business License (FBL) to operate.

With that in mind, here’s how we can assist you:

Q: How does the Foreign Business Act (FBA) affect my business in Thailand?

The Foreign Business Act sets out rules about which types of businesses foreigners can operate. If your business falls under List 2 or List 3, you will need a Foreign Business License (FBL) to legally operate in Thailand.

If you decide to hire us, we will review your business activities and identify whether your business requires an FBL.
From there, we will handle the entire application process, ensuring everything is compliant with Thai law.

Yes, as a foreigner under Thai law, your business will face certain restrictions under the Foreign Business Act. This includes needing approval for ownership and licenses if your business activities fall under List 2 or List 3.

If you work with SiamConsult, we will assess your company’s structure, ensure compliance with the law, and apply for any necessary licenses, such as the Foreign Business License.

Whether you need an FBL depends on the activities of your business.

If your business falls under List 2 (industries related to national security or culture) or List 3 (where Thai nationals are not yet ready to compete), then you will need a Foreign Business License. 

We will review your specific business activity and, if needed, apply for the FBL on your behalf. We will handle the entire process, from submitting paperwork to liaising with the Department of Business Development.

To apply for a Foreign Business License, you must meet certain qualifications, such as being at least 20 years old, having legal residency in Thailand, and a clean legal record.

If you hire us, we’ll ensure that you and your company meet all these qualifications. We’ll handle the paperwork, and coordinate with Thai authorities, to ensure your application is processed smoothly and correctly.

List 1 includes business activities that are entirely off-limits to foreigners, such as media, agriculture, and land trading.
These businesses are reserved exclusively for Thai nationals.

If your business idea falls into these categories, we will work with you to explore alternative options. Our goal is to ensure that your business operates legally without falling into restricted categories.

Yes, there are certain exceptions where foreigners can own more than 50% of a company.

These exceptions include the Thailand-United States Treaty of Amity and BOI (Board of Investment) promotion. If applicable, we will explore these options for you.

For example, we can help you apply for BOI promotion, which not only allows you to hold a majority stake but also provides other benefits such as tax exemptions.

The minimum capital required for foreign-owned businesses is 2 million baht for unrestricted activities and 3 million baht for businesses under List 2 or List 3.

If you hire SiamConsult, we will ensure that your company meets these financial requirements and handle the necessary reporting with the Thai authorities, ensuring your business is properly set up from the financial side.

If you choose to work with us, we will handle the entire Foreign Business License application process.
This includes preparing all the required documentation, submitting it to the Department of Business Development, and responding to any questions or issues from the authorities.

Our team will highlight how your business benefits Thailand—whether through job creation or economic growth—to improve the chances of approval.

Some common activities under List 3 include accounting, legal services, construction, retail, and wholesale (under certain thresholds).

If your business falls under List 3, we will take care of applying for the Foreign Business License. We ensure all legal requirements are met so that your business can operate smoothly without legal obstacles.

If your business qualifies for BOI promotion, you can bypass the need for a Foreign Business License.

When you hire SiamConsult, we will check whether your business is eligible for BOI promotion and, if so, we will manage the application for you.

BOI status not only exempts you from FBL requirements but also offers tax incentives and other benefits.

Conclusion By SiamConsult

If you decide to work with SiamConsult, we will guide you through every step of setting up your foreign business in Thailand. From determining whether your business falls under List 1, 2, or 3, to applying for the Foreign Business License or exploring BOI promotion, we’ve got you covered. Our goal is to make the process smooth and worry-free so you can focus on growing your business.

 

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List 1: Business Activities Completely Restricted to Foreigners (Foreign Business Act, Thailand)

1. The Press, Radio Broadcasting, and Television
  • Explanation: Foreigners cannot own or run any media outlets like newspapers, magazines, radio stations, or television channels. The Thai government controls the media sector to ensure local content is influenced by Thai nationals and to maintain national security.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners cannot own online news portals, radio streaming websites, or TV platforms that primarily broadcast to Thai audiences or operate as news sources. However, foreign-owned websites that offer general information or entertainment content are generally allowed, provided they do not function as Thai-based news outlets.
  • Example: You cannot run a website dedicated to Thai news or an online radio station broadcasting in Thailand.
2. Rice Farming, Crop Cultivation, and Plantations
  • Explanation: Agriculture, particularly rice farming, is deeply tied to Thailand’s economy and culture. Foreigners are restricted from owning or operating agricultural enterprises, including crop cultivation and plantations, to protect Thai farmers and food security.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: While you cannot physically engage in agricultural activities, foreign-owned websites that provide information, tools, or international trade services related to agriculture may be allowed. These platforms should not directly manage or own farmland in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot own a plantation in Thailand, but you can run a website offering international advice on farming techniques or machinery.
3. Livestock Farming
  • Explanation: Foreigners are prohibited from owning or operating any businesses related to the farming of livestock, such as cattle, poultry, or pigs, to support local farmers and ensure control over the food supply chain.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may own a website that provides information on livestock farming techniques, markets livestock products internationally, or offers farming technologies, but you cannot own or manage farms within Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot run a cattle farm in Thailand, but you can own a website that provides global livestock market data or farming equipment sales.
4. Forestry and Timber Processing from Natural Forests
  • Explanation: Thailand’s natural forests are an important environmental resource. Foreigners are not allowed to engage in logging or processing timber from these forests to protect ecosystems and reduce deforestation.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate a website that deals with international timber trade, as long as it does not involve sourcing timber from Thailand’s natural forests or engage in Thai forest management.
  • Example: You cannot own a logging company in Thailand, but you can run a website that sells international timber or promotes sustainable forestry practices globally.
5. Fishery (Catching Aquatic Animals in Thai Waters)
  • Explanation: Foreigners cannot own or operate businesses that involve fishing in Thailand’s territorial waters. This is to protect marine resources and preserve them for local fishermen.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may run websites that provide fishing information, equipment sales, or international seafood trade services, but you cannot manage fishing fleets in Thai waters or operate fishery businesses directly in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot operate a commercial fishing company in Thailand, but you can have a website that sells fishing equipment globally or manages international seafood exports.
6. Extraction of Thai Medicinal Herbs
  • Explanation: The collection and extraction of medicinal herbs indigenous to Thailand are reserved for Thai nationals. This protects the country’s valuable natural resources and traditional knowledge of herbal remedies.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate an e-commerce website selling medicinal herbs internationally, as long as the herbs are not extracted from Thailand’s natural environment. Foreign-owned platforms must source materials legally and avoid engaging directly with local Thai resources.
  • Example: You cannot operate a business that harvests Thai medicinal herbs, but you can run a website selling legally sourced herbs or herbal products from other countries.
7. Trading and Auctioning of Thai Historical Artifacts and Objects of Historical Value
  • Explanation: Foreigners cannot trade or auction Thai artifacts, antiques, or items of cultural or historical significance. This ensures that Thailand’s cultural heritage remains in Thai hands and is not exported without control.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreign-owned websites can sell international collectibles or run auctions for non-Thai items. However, selling or auctioning Thai artifacts on foreign-owned platforms is prohibited.
  • Example: You cannot own a website that auctions Thai historical artifacts, but you can operate an international auction website for non-Thai antiques.
8. Making or Casting Buddha Images and Monk Alms-Bowls
  • Explanation: Producing or casting Buddha images and alms-bowls is reserved for Thai nationals due to the religious and cultural significance of these items in Thailand.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners may operate websites selling replicas or images of Buddha sourced from outside of Thailand, but these must not involve production within Thailand or violate religious sensitivities.
  • Example: You cannot own a factory or workshop in Thailand that produces Buddha statues, but you can sell Buddha replicas on an international e-commerce platform, as long as they are not sourced from within Thailand.
9. Land Trading
  • Explanation: Foreigners cannot buy or sell land in Thailand. Land ownership is reserved for Thai nationals, with very limited exceptions under special government-approved circumstances, such as long-term leases.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate real estate websites that facilitate long-term leases or rentals but cannot directly buy or sell land. Many foreign-owned platforms focus on expat services or rental properties, ensuring compliance with Thai laws.
  • Example: You cannot directly trade land in Thailand, but you can run a website that lists properties for rent or long-term lease to expats.

Conclusion By SiamConsult

 

The activities listed in List 1 are fully restricted to protect Thailand’s national interests, culture, and natural resources.
While foreigners cannot directly engage in these sectors, SiamConsult can help you explore other opportunities or structures for conducting business in Thailand.
When it comes to websites or online platforms, careful consideration must be given to ensure compliance with these restrictions, especially if your website is involved in any activities related to Thai resources, culture, or industry.

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List 2: Business Activities Restricted to Foreigners (Foreign Business Act, Thailand)

List 2 of the Foreign Business Act (FBA) includes business activities that foreigners can engage in, but only under specific conditions. These activities are considered critical to Thailand’s national security, culture, and natural resources.
Foreign businesses must have majority Thai ownership (at least 40% of the shares) or special approval from the authorities.
Below is a detailed explanation of each business activity in List 2, including how it affects foreign-owned websites and online platforms.

1. Businesses Related to National Safety or Security
  • Explanation: This includes sectors critical to Thailand’s national security, such as arms production, military equipment, and transportation networks like railways and airports. These businesses are highly regulated, and foreigners must comply with strict ownership conditions or receive special government approval.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Websites offering information, tools, or services related to security or defense may operate internationally. However, they cannot directly involve the management of Thai national security or defense-related projects.

  • Example: You cannot own a business that manufactures or sells military equipment in Thailand, but you could run a website offering general security solutions or military equipment sales outside Thailand.

2. Business Activities Related to Arts, Culture, Traditions, and Local Handicrafts
  • Explanation: Businesses that may impact Thai culture, arts, traditions, or local handicrafts are restricted. This is to preserve Thai heritage, such as traditional arts and crafts, which are considered a vital part of the country’s identity.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can run a foreign-owned website selling Thai crafts, provided the production of these crafts is controlled or owned by Thais. Websites that promote Thai culture, arts, or handicrafts must ensure compliance with ownership regulations if directly involved in production.

  • Example: You cannot own a business in Thailand that makes traditional Thai silk, but you could sell Thai silk products online if produced by a Thai-controlled business.

3. Natural Resource Exploitation (Mining, Quarrying, Lumber Processing)
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from businesses that exploit Thailand’s natural resources, including mining, quarrying, and lumber processing. These industries are considered important for environmental protection and sustainable development.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreign-owned websites may promote or sell natural resource-based products internationally but cannot be involved in the direct exploitation or management of these resources in Thailand.

  • Example: You cannot run a mining operation in Thailand, but you could manage a website that sells globally sourced minerals or products, provided they do not come from Thai mines or forests.

4. Business Activities Affecting the Environment
  • Explanation: Industries that have a significant environmental impact, such as water resource management, waste management, and chemical production, are restricted. These activities are tightly controlled to prevent environmental degradation.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can run foreign-owned websites focused on environmental consulting, products, or information, as long as your business does not directly manage Thai environmental resources or operations.

  • Example: You cannot own a waste management company in Thailand, but you could run an international website offering environmental technologies or services.

5. Manufacture of Products Essential to National Economy
  • Explanation: The manufacturing of products that are deemed essential to Thailand’s economy, such as agricultural machinery, is restricted. This ensures that control over key economic sectors remains in Thai hands.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate websites that promote or sell machinery and products internationally, as long as the manufacturing itself does not take place under foreign ownership in Thailand.

  • Example: You cannot manufacture tractors or agricultural machinery in Thailand, but you could run an e-commerce site that sells these products if they are made outside Thailand.

6. Land and Water Transportation Services (Excluding Air Transport)
  • Explanation: Foreign ownership in land and water transportation services, including rail, road, and marine transport, is restricted.
    The Thai government views these sectors as essential for national infrastructure.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate a foreign-owned website that offers services such as logistics management or transport booking platforms, but you cannot directly own or manage transportation services operating in Thailand.

  • Example: You cannot own a Thai transportation company, but you could run a global shipping platform that connects customers with Thai logistics providers.

7. Trading of Antiquities and Objects with Cultural Significance
  • Explanation: Similar to List 1, foreign ownership in businesses trading in antiquities or culturally significant items is restricted to prevent exploitation of Thailand’s cultural heritage.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate international e-commerce platforms that sell or trade non-Thai artifacts, but cannot trade in Thai antiquities or objects of cultural value.

  • Example: You cannot own a business that trades in Thai antiques, but you could run a website that deals in non-Thai artifacts.

8. Business Activities Impacting Natural Resources and Environment
  • Explanation: Similar to other industries under List 2, any business that could impact Thailand’s natural resources or environment, such as forestry, water resources, and energy, is restricted. These industries are crucial to national sustainability.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreign-owned platforms can promote international environmental solutions or energy-efficient technologies, but they cannot directly manage Thai natural resources or environmentally impactful projects.

  • Example: You cannot own a company that manages Thai water resources, but you could run a website offering global water management solutions.

9. Construction Related to Infrastructure for Public Services or National Security
  • Explanation: Foreigners can engage in certain types of construction, but construction projects related to public utilities, infrastructure, or national security require special approval and are subject to strict ownership conditions.

  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Websites related to construction tools, consulting, or international infrastructure projects may be operated by foreigners, but direct involvement in Thai infrastructure construction requires majority Thai ownership.

  • Example: You cannot own a construction company building public infrastructure in Thailand, but you could operate a website that provides international construction services or consulting.

Conclusion By SiamConsult

The activities listed in List 2 are restricted to protect Thailand’s national security, culture, and natural resources. Foreigners can still participate in these sectors, but typically with majority Thai ownership or special approval. When it comes to websites or online platforms, foreigners can engage in most activities as long as they do not directly manage or control these restricted industries within Thailand.

If you’re interested in starting a business in one of these sectors, SiamConsult can help you navigate the regulations, secure the necessary approvals, or explore alternative structures. For more information, contact us at +66 82 419 1993 or info@krabi-accounting-law.com.

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List 3: Businesses Where Thai Nationals Are Not Yet Ready to Compete with Foreigners (Foreign Business Act, Thailand)


List 3 of the Foreign Business Act (FBA) includes business activities where Thai nationals are considered not yet ready to compete with foreigners. Foreigners are allowed to operate in these industries, but only if they obtain a Foreign Business License (FBL) from the relevant authorities.

Below is a detailed explanation of each business activity in List 3, including how it affects foreign-owned websites and online platforms.

1. Rice Milling and Production of Flour from Rice and Other Economic Crops
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from owning or operating rice milling and flour production businesses, as these activities are vital to Thailand’s agricultural sector. The government seeks to protect local farmers and producers.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may run an international website that sells rice or flour products globally, but you cannot directly own or operate rice milling or flour production facilities in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot own a rice mill, but you could operate a website that exports Thai rice or other agricultural products globally.
2. Fishery (Hatching and Raising Aquatic Animals)
  • Explanation: While catching fish is restricted in List 1, foreigners are also limited in hatching and raising aquatic animals, such as fish farming.
    This is to support Thai aquaculture industries.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate websites offering aquaculture consulting or equipment for global markets but cannot own or manage fish farms in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot own a fish farm in Thailand, but you could run a website selling fish farming equipment or offering global consulting services.
3. Forestry from Grown Forests
  • Explanation: While natural forests are fully restricted under List 1, foreign ownership in managing grown (man-made) forests for timber production is also limited to protect Thailand’s forestry resources.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate websites that sell timber or forestry-related products internationally, provided the timber is not sourced from grown forests in Thailand under your direct control.
  • Example: You cannot manage a grown forest in Thailand, but you can run an international timber trade website.
4. Production of Plywood, Veneer Wood, Chipboards, and Hardboards
  • Explanation: The production of plywood, veneer, and other wood products from forestry operations is restricted for foreigners to support local manufacturing and forest conservation efforts.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may operate e-commerce platforms selling plywood or wood products globally but cannot produce these materials in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot own a plywood manufacturing business in Thailand, but you could run a website that sells internationally sourced plywood or wood products.
5. Production of Lime
  • Explanation: Lime is a key material used in construction and agriculture. Foreigners are restricted from producing lime in Thailand to support local manufacturers.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate a website that sells lime products globally but cannot own or operate a lime production facility in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot run a lime factory, but you could manage an international website that distributes lime products from other countries.
6. Provision of Accounting Services
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from providing accounting services directly in Thailand, as this profession is protected for Thai nationals.
    This is to ensure that local professionals manage sensitive financial services.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can run an international accounting platform or offer online services for businesses outside Thailand, but you cannot provide accounting services to Thai companies directly.
  • Example: You cannot run an accounting firm in Thailand, but you could offer international accounting software or remote services through a website.
7. Provision of Legal Services
  • Explanation: Legal services are restricted for foreign ownership to protect the integrity of Thailand’s legal system and ensure local professionals handle legal matters.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate international legal advisory platforms but cannot provide direct legal services to Thai clients or manage a law firm in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot operate a law firm in Thailand, but you could manage a website offering legal consulting for foreign businesses outside Thailand.
8. Provision of Architectural Services
  • Explanation: Architectural services are restricted to support Thai architects and preserve the cultural aspects of local architecture.
    Foreigners cannot operate these businesses without an FBL.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may operate a website offering architectural services globally or consulting on international projects, but you cannot manage an architecture firm in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot run an architectural firm in Thailand, but you could operate a website providing architectural consulting for projects abroad.
9. Provision of Engineering Services
  • Explanation: Similar to architectural services, engineering services are restricted for foreign ownership to ensure local expertise in critical infrastructure projects.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may run global engineering consulting platforms or offer services outside Thailand, but direct management of an engineering firm in Thailand requires an FBL.
  • Example: You cannot own an engineering firm in Thailand, but you could operate a website offering international engineering solutions or consulting.
10. Construction
  • Explanation: Construction, particularly of public infrastructure, is restricted for foreign companies.
    Foreigners can engage in large projects related to public utilities or transportation if they have specialized expertise and high capital (500 million baht or more).
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate websites related to construction consulting, tools, or international projects but cannot own construction companies focused on public infrastructure in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot run a construction company building public roads in Thailand, but you could run a website offering construction tools or global project consulting.
11. Brokerage or Agency Businesses (Certain Exceptions Apply)
  • Explanation: Most brokerage services, such as real estate or financial services, are restricted to Thai nationals.
    However, there are exceptions in cases involving international trade or affiliates.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate websites that provide international brokerage services for global markets but cannot manage brokerage services that deal directly in Thailand unless an exception applies.
  • Example: You cannot own a brokerage firm in Thailand for domestic real estate, but you could manage a website offering global brokerage services in commodities or securities.
12. Hotel Business (Excluding Management Services)
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from owning hotel businesses in Thailand to protect the local tourism industry.
    However, foreigners can manage hotels or provide management services.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You can operate hotel booking platforms or consulting services globally, but you cannot own hotels directly in Thailand without majority Thai ownership or an FBL.
  • Example: You cannot own a hotel in Thailand, but you could run a website offering global hotel management or booking services.
13. Retail Sale of Goods (Under Specific Financial Thresholds)
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from retail businesses where the total capital is lower than 100 million baht or with capital per store below 20 million baht.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners may operate global e-commerce or retail websites but cannot own brick-and-mortar retail stores in Thailand that fall under these thresholds.
  • Example: You cannot own a small retail store in Thailand, but you could manage a website selling products internationally.
14. Wholesale of Goods (Under Specific Financial Thresholds)
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from wholesale businesses with capital below 100 million baht per store.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate wholesale e-commerce platforms internationally but cannot own or operate wholesale stores in Thailand that do not meet the financial thresholds.
  • Example: You cannot own a wholesale business in Thailand with less than 100 million baht capital, but you could manage a website selling wholesale goods globally.
15. Advertising Business
  • Explanation: The advertising industry is restricted for foreign ownership to ensure local content remains under Thai influence.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: Foreigners can operate international marketing or advertising platforms online but must have a Foreign Business License to directly manage advertising businesses in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot own an advertising agency in Thailand, but you could run an online global marketing platform.
16. Guided Touring Services
  • Explanation: Foreigners are restricted from owning businesses that provide guided tours within Thailand.
    This is to protect the local tourism industry and ensure Thai professionals manage guided services.
  • Foreign-Owned Websites: You may operate websites that offer international tour booking or tourism advice, but you cannot directly own or operate guided tour companies in Thailand.
  • Example: You cannot run a guided tour business in Thailand, but you could manage a global travel booking platform.

Conclusion By SiamConsult

The activities listed in List 3 are restricted because Thailand considers local industries not yet ready to compete with foreigners. If you want to engage in these activities, you will need a Foreign Business License (FBL), which allows you to legally operate under specific conditions. Foreigners can still manage online platforms and e-commerce websites for global markets, but direct involvement in Thai industries requires careful compliance with the law.

If you’re interested in pursuing one of these business activities in Thailand, SiamConsult can help you navigate the Foreign Business License application process or explore other options to legally operate your business. Contact us at +66 82 419 1993 or info@krabi-account

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