Gambling in Thailand? Current Legislation and Future Developments

For decades, Thailand has maintained strict regulations surrounding gambling, with the Gambling Act of 1935 (B.E. 2478) forming the cornerstone of the country’s gambling laws. While there is growing interest in the potential legalization of casinos by 2027, the current legal framework permits only a limited range of gambling activities, each closely monitored by regulatory […]

Thailand’s Current Regulatory Stance on Crypto Payments: A Controlled Approach to Innovation

By Don Sornumpol Thailand’s regulatory authorities, the Bank of Thailand (BOT) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), have taken a cautious yet open-minded approach towards the use of cryptocurrencies as a means of payment. Their primary concerns—rooted in the volatility of digital assets, the risks of cybercrime, and potential money laundering—have led to a […]

How companies can do more for the environment in Thailand

Top 10 Eco-Friendly Practices for Thai Businesses A 2024 survey by Marketbuzzz and Thammasat University’s School of Global Studies found that environmental and pollution problems were the top public concern for 30% of respondents. The survey also reported that 74% of participants perceived these issues as having a detrimental impact on their quality of life. […]

Combating Greenwashing: Implications for Thailand and Global Business

In the modern market, sustainability is increasingly prioritized. Advertisements frequently tout the environmental benefits of products: “packaging made from 30% recycled plastic” or “carbon emissions reduced by 50% compared to 2020.” Yet, beneath these claims lies a challenge: how true are they? Instances like T-shirts allegedly made from recycled plastic bottles—where only 1% of the […]

A Guide to Exporting Medical Cannabis from Thailand to Australia

By Dr. Paul Crosio The global demand for medical cannabis has seen significant growth in recent years, with countries like Thailand and Australia playing important roles in both production and importation. Thailand, having legalized medical cannabis in 2018, is now positioning itself as a key player in the global medical cannabis industry. At the same […]

Thailand rolls out new ETA requirements for visa-free visitors

By Dr. Paul Crosio Thailand is set to implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visa-free visitors. The move aligns with similar international systems, such as the USA’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and is designed to enhance the screening and tracking of foreign nationals entering Thailand. According to the Ministry of Foreign […]

Australian Anti-Bribery Legislation Comes into Effect: Key Measures for Compliance for Australian Companies Operating in Thailand

By Dr. Paul Crosio Effective from 8 September 2024, companies operating in or from Australia may face criminal liability if they fail to demonstrate “adequate procedures” to prevent foreign bribery. This legal development follows the enactment of the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Combatting Foreign Bribery) Act 2024, which introduced a new corporate offense: failing to prevent […]

Developments in IP Enforcement: Tracing the Identity of Online Infringers in Thailand

With the emergence of online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms, consumers have transformed their ways of engaging in transactions, gaining unprecedented convenience and access to a vast array of products. These platforms allow small businesses and individual entrepreneurs to reach a wider audience in an increasingly competitive market. Challenges in Tracing Online Infringers The growth of […]

Thai Revenue Department rules on companies’ relationship based on common shareholding

Thai Revenue Department rules on company relationships based on common shareholding. Article by Amit Bhalla & Andrew Jackomos of HLB Thailand in ITR.  The Thai Revenue Department (TRD) recently issued a ruling concerning the relationship between two companies based on their common shareholding. The case revolved around assessing whether Arare Company Limited (Arare) and Fahsai Company […]

Incentives Approved to Promote JV Investments in Automotive Parts Sector

Incentives Approved to Promote JV Investments in Automotive Parts Sector – Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has approved an incentives package to promote investment in joint ventures between Thai and foreign companies to manufacture automotive parts and components for internal combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles. Both new projects and existing wholly foreign owned parts manufacturers […]