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.
Trade Competition Act
พระราชบัญญัติการแข่งขันทางการค้า · TCA · B.E. 2560 (2017)
Overview
The Trade Competition Act B.E. 2560 (2017) is Thailand's modern antitrust statute, replacing the 1999 framework. It is enforced by the Office of Trade Competition Commission (OTCC) and prohibits abuse of dominance, anti-competitive agreements (cartels, vertical restraints), and unfair trade practices. Mergers above prescribed thresholds require pre-merger notification.
- Promulgating authority
- Parliament
- พระราชบัญญัติ
- Enacted
- B.E. 2560 (2017)
- Official text
- https://www.krisdika.go.th/
Key Sections6
The 6 sections most frequently cited in practice or relevant to foreigners. Click any section for a deep-linkable page suitable for sharing.
Section 50
— Abuse of dominanceProhibits dominant firms from abusive practices including predatory pricing, refusal to deal, and discriminatory terms.
Section 54
— Cartels — horizontal agreementsProhibits hardcore cartel agreements (price-fixing, market allocation, bid-rigging) between competitors.
Section 55
— Vertical restraintsProhibits exclusionary vertical agreements with anti-competitive effects.
Section 57
— Unfair trade practicesProhibits trade conduct causing unfair damage to competitors or harming consumer welfare.
Section 59
— Merger controlMergers crossing OTCC-set thresholds require pre-merger notification and approval.
Section 82
— PenaltiesAdministrative fines up to 10% of turnover for serious violations; criminal penalties for hardcore cartels.
Amendments
Replaced the Trade Competition Act B.E. 2542 (1999) with significantly strengthened enforcement powers and pre-merger notification.
The summaries on this page are plain-English educational paraphrases — not authoritative translations. For the binding wording you must consult the Royal Gazette publication or the consolidated text at the Office of the Council of State. Educational use only — not a substitute for advice from a Thai-qualified lawyer.
Professional Legal Assistance
When a matter involves investigation, arrest, detention, litigation, or regulatory action, professional legal representation becomes essential.
Anglo Siam Legal provides experienced legal services across Thailand for both Thai nationals and foreigners.
feedback.wasThisHelpful