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    Educational Information Only

    The content on this page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. For matters involving investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, consult a qualified legal professional.

    Thai Law
    1 min read

    Corporate & Business Law

    Company formation, Foreign Business Act, director liability, and corporate governance.

    Overview

    Thai business law covers company formation, corporate governance, and foreign investment restrictions. The Foreign Business Act limits certain business activities to Thai nationals or majority Thai-owned companies.

    Key Legislation

    Civil and Commercial Code Book III
    Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999)
    Public Limited Companies Act B.E. 2535 (1992)

    Topics Covered

    Company Formation

    Starting a business in Thailand

    Foreign Business Act

    Restrictions on foreign business

    Directors

    Director duties and liability

    Shareholders

    Shareholder rights and disputes

    Offences

    Detailed information on specific offences, their elements, penalties, and defences.

    Nominee Shareholder Arrangements

    serious

    Using Thai nominees to circumvent foreign ownership restrictions.

    Foreign Business Act Section 36, Land Code•Max: Up to 3 years imprisonment and/or fine up to 1,000,000 THB; company dissolution possible

    Procedures

    Company Registration

    Registering a private limited company in Thailand.

    Timeline: 1-2 weeks with proper preparation

    Foreign Business License Application

    Applying for license to conduct restricted business activities as a foreigner.

    Timeline: 3-6 months; some applications refused

    For Foreigners

    Special Considerations for Foreign Nationals

    Foreign nationals face unique considerations in Thai corporate & business law matters, including language barriers, immigration implications, and procedural differences. Understanding these distinctions is essential for protecting your rights.

    Read foreigners guide

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What business activities are restricted for foreigners?

    Three lists: completely prohibited, special approval required, and Thai majority required unless licensed.

    What is the minimum capital requirement for a Thai company?

    No legal minimum for Thai-owned companies, but 2M THB registered capital per work permit is required for foreign employees.

    What are director liabilities in Thailand?

    Directors face personal liability for breaches of duty, fraud, unpaid taxes/wages, and in some cases company debts.

    What is the US Treaty of Amity?

    A 1966 treaty allowing US citizens and companies to hold majority ownership in Thai companies without FBA restrictions.

    What are the benefits of BOI promotion?

    Tax holidays (up to 13 years), import duty exemptions, foreign majority ownership, work permit facilitation, and land ownership in some cases.

    View all FAQs Corporate & Business Law →

    When Legal Representation Matters

    If you are facing a corporate & business law matter that involves investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, professional legal representation becomes essential.

    Anglo Siam Legal provides experienced legal services across Thailand for both Thai nationals and foreigners.

    Speak to a LawyerLegal Consultation

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