Thailand is a country known for its serene tourist spots, royal palaces, ancient temples, and Pad Thai. It is also becoming a new favorite for investors. As of 2025, the Asia Pacific consensus forecasts indicate that Thailand's net FDI will rise to USD 12.4 billion. If you are planning to invest in a country, Thailand should be your first choice.
Are you wondering about investment opportunities in Thailand? Our experts at S & F Consulting Firm have prepared this guide with key information on the most profitable investment opportunities in Thailand. Keep reading!
Thailand’s economy is continuing to grow and recover. The World Bank expects it to expand by 2.9% in 2025, compared to 2.6% in 2024.
The tourism sector in Thailand is getting better every day. Experts say that in 2025, Thailand will welcome 41 million visitors. This means that businesses in Thailand can earn more money by selling goods and services to these visitors.
Foreign direct investment in Thailand is also growing. In the third quarter of 2024, FDI inflows reached about 66699.72 million Thai Baht. This shows that more foreign companies are investing in Thailand.
The Thai government offers various incentives to encourage investments in Thailand. In 2024, the number of investment applications increased by 35% compared to the previous year. This is the highest number of investment applications in the last 10 years.
Thailand is often called the "Detroit of Asia" because of its strong automotive industry. This sector contributes about 10% to the country's GDP and produces over 2 million vehicles each year. Thus, car manufacturers like Toyota and Honda have set up their operations in Thailand.
Thailand is the 12th largest country in the world for agricultural output. In the first nine months of 2024, the agriculture and food processing sector had 226 investment projects. These projects were worth a total of 53 billion Baht.
The petrochemicals and chemicals industry plays an important role in Thailand's economy. From January to September 2024, there were 162 projects in this sector. These projects had a total value of 34.3 billion Baht.
Thailand is quickly becoming a digital hub in Southeast Asia. In 2024, investment applications in this area reached a 10-year high of 1.14 trillion Baht.
The expansion of 5G networks is improving connectivity throughout Thailand. Telecommunications companies are investing a lot in infrastructure to provide high-speed internet and mobile services.
Thailand is famous for its gems and jewelry industry. In 2019, exports in this sector, including gold, reached over US$15.7 billion. This makes it the third-largest export category for the country.
The Thai government plans to improve the semiconductor industry in Thailand. The government has a goal of attracting 500 billion Baht in investments for this sector by 2029.
In the first half of 2024, the electronics sector in Thailand attracted foreign direct investment projects worth about 139 billion Thai Baht.
As a foreigner, you can purchase condominium units as long as foreign ownership in the building does not exceed 49%. However, owning land directly is usually restricted. To work around this, you can lease land on a long-term basis for up to 30 years with an option to renew.
This allows you to invest in properties in Thailand without owning the land outright. It is highly recommended to consult with a local legal expert like S & F Consulting Firm to make sure your investment complies with Thai property laws.
Steps to Invest in Real Estate
Step 1: Select a property agent in Thailand who understands the local market and can help you find the right property.
Step 2: Hire a property lawyer to guide you through legal requirements and ensure all necessary documents are in place.
Step 3: Check the property's legal status to confirm there are no disputes or claims against it.
Step 4: Once you are satisfied with the property, pay a deposit to secure it.
Step 5: Review the terms of the contract with your lawyer before making any final decisions.
Step 6: Register the property with the Land Department in Thailand.
The Stock Exchange of Thailand offers great opportunities for you to invest in Thai companies. You just need to open a brokerage account with a Thai financial institution. To do that you need a valid visa and a Thai bank account. Once your account is active, you can trade stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
Keep in mind that the Thai stock market can be volatile. It is important to conduct thorough research or consult with financial advisors before making any investment decisions.
Steps to Invest in the Stock Market
Step 1: Select a reputable brokerage firm in Thailand to open your trading account.
Step 2: Decide whether you want a cash account or a credit balance account based on your investment style.
Step 3: Fill out the necessary forms and provide required documents like identification and proof of residence.
Step 4: Transfer the initial deposit into your brokerage account to begin trading.
Step 5: Use the brokerage platform to buy and sell stocks on the SET.
If you are looking for a diversified investment strategy, mutual funds or exchange-traded funds are excellent options. These funds let you invest in a variety of assets with different levels of risk. For instance, you could choose to invest in a mutual fund that focuses on the Thai tourism industry.
Steps to Invest in Mutual Funds and ETFs
Step 1: Look for mutual funds or ETFs that match your investment goals and risk tolerance.
Step 2: Create an account with a financial institution or brokerage that provides access to the funds you are interested in.
Step 3: Submit the necessary documents and fill out any required forms.
Step 4: Deposit the amount you wish to invest into your investment account.
Step 5: Use your account platform to buy shares of the mutual funds or ETFs you have selected.
Investing in Thai government bonds is a relatively low-risk option. These bonds are debt securities issued by the Thai government to fund public spending. They provide fixed interest payments over a certain period. To invest, you can buy bonds through local banks or authorized dealers.
Steps to Invest in Government Bonds
Step 1: Visit a local bank or authorized dealer that sells government bonds.
Step 2: Choose a bond series that fits your investment timeline and interest preferences.
Step 3: Fill out the required forms and provide your identification documents.
Step 4: Pay the necessary amount to acquire the bonds.
Step 5: Get your bond certificates or confirm they are credited to your investment account.
If you want to start a business in Thailand, setting up a Private Limited Company can be a great choice. A PLC provides limited liability protection and requires at least three shareholders.
Steps to Open a Private Limited Company in Thailand
Step 1: Submit a name reservation request to the Department of Business Development. The name must be unique and not conflict with existing businesses.
Step 2: Draft and submit the MOA, which includes details about shareholders, business objectives, and registered capital.
Step 3: Once the Memorandum of Association (MOA) is approved, you need to register the company with the Department of Business Development (DBD). To do this, you will need to provide the following documents:
The business address
A document listing the names, nationalities, addresses, and shareholdings of each shareholder
Copies of passport-sized photographs, as well as the passport or national ID card of each shareholder and director
A completed application form for company registration
Step 4: Register for a TIN with the Revenue Department. If your company’s annual turnover exceeds 1.8 million THB, you must also register for VAT.
Step 5: Choose a Thai bank and open a corporate bank account for handling business transactions.
Step 6: Some industries require additional permits or a Foreign Business License in Thailand. Check if your business is restricted under the Foreign Business Act.
The Board of Investment in Thailand offers various incentives to encourage foreign and local investments.
Group A1: If you plan to conduct knowledge-based activities like research and development or design, you can qualify for Group A1 incentives. These include the following:
An eight-year corporate income tax exemption without a cap
Import duty exemptions on machinery and raw materials
Non-tax benefits like land ownership rights and work permits.
Group A2: If your activities involve infrastructure development or advanced technology with limited existing investments in Thailand, you can receive an eight-year CIT exemption (with a cap). You will also get import duty exemptions and non-tax benefits.
Group A3: If you invest in high-technology activities that are critical to Thailand’s development but have limited local competition, you can receive a five-year CIT exemption. You will also receive import duty exemptions and non-tax benefits.
Group A4: You can qualify for a three-year CIT exemption if your business activities use domestic resources or improves the supply chain of Thailand. You will also enjoy import duty exemptions and non-tax incentives.
Group B1 and B2: If you are involved in industries that support the value chain but do not use advanced technology, you can receive non-tax benefits. Additionally, Group B1 may qualify for exemptions on import duties for machinery.
The Eastern Economic Corridor in Thailand is a special development zone in Chachoengsao, Chonburi, and Rayong provinces. It offers the following incentives.
Tax Incentives: If you invest in industries like next-generation automotive, biotechnology, or digital industries, you can receive tax benefits such as:
Corporate income tax exemptions for up to 15 years.
A 50% CIT reduction for up to five years after the exemption period ends.
Import Duty Exemptions: You can also enjoy exemptions from import duties on machinery and raw materials used in production.
Non-Tax Incentives: The EEC also provides non-tax benefits including:
Land ownership rights
Faster visa and work permit processes
Access to improved infrastructure
The Super Savings Fund is designed to encourage long-term investment in the Thai stock market. You can claim tax deductions for up to 30% of your total taxable income. However, the maximum deduction is capped at THB 200,000 per year.
If you also contribute to savings plans like the Provident Fund, Government Pension Fund, or Retirement Mutual Fund the total tax deductions cannot exceed THB 500,000 per year.
Foreign businesses typically require a minimum registered capital of THB 2 million (about USD 60,000). This amount may vary depending on the industry or the type of business.
Thailand offers better infrastructure and a strategic location in Southeast Asia. It also has a larger tourism industry and more government incentives for foreign investors compared to Vietnam or Malaysia.
Yes, you need a Non-Immigrant Business Visa (Non-B Visa) to invest or start a business in Thailand. This visa allows you to conduct business activities and apply for a work permit if necessary.
You can find investment opportunities by connecting with local business platforms, attending trade expos, or consulting with Thailand’s Board of Investment.
Company Formation
Income Tax
Small Business Ideas
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(BA-Hons, MBA, LL.B, LL.M)
Meet Md. Forhad Hossain – is an expert in company registration with over 14 years of experience. He has helped more than 400 businesses in Malaysia and over 7,000 clients from around the world start their journey successfully.
Forhad is passionate about making business registration simple and stress-free. His knowledge and dedication have earned him the trust of entrepreneurs worldwide.
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