business in Thailand

WingNut · Rookie Joined: 07 Nov 2006 Posts: 13 Location: Iraq

I have been to Thailand a few times and everyone says it is easy to start a business there, just have Thai wife. Well, I have a Korean wife and we are looking to start a business, but not into bar scene too much. Any thoughts? Like ownerhip and stuff? I know I will need to get a local lawyer.
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Putt'n On The Foil Coach

Hublet · Specialist Joined: 14 Jun 2006 Posts: 122 Location: China

Personally I wouldn't be thinking of this at the moment. There have been many changes in law and just when the goal posts are cemented with rubber they are preparing to change them again. All in the name of ''restoring confidence among domestic and foreign investors.

Up to 200 laws may change

CHATRUDEE THEPARAT

The interim government aims to amend between 150 and 200 laws that pose obstacles to economic development within its one-year tenure year of administration, business leaders said.

Khunying Jada Wattanasiritham, president of the Thai Bankers' Association, said that Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont has stressed that amending laws is an urgent task for the government.

''There were about 500 laws that needed improvement. However, the interim government aims to complete the amendment of about 150 to 200 laws,'' she said

source: http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/08Nov2006_biz47.php

If you want to go to or stay in Thailand lrgally be prepared to jump through their hoops, have very very deep pockets. Those who are there illegally get ready to bolt. Those operating businesses or workng illegally be prepared to bolt. A birdy told me recently that there are more things being put into action.

buksida · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 7:09 pm Post subject:

Agree with the above, in fact if you want to stay here at all prepare to jump through hoops - it seems to be the way its all heading.
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Luctor et Emergo

PJG · Specialist Joined: 06 Jan 2006 Posts: 182

I have been doing business in Thailand for about 20 years but all of that has involved manufacturing in Thailand and exporting to Europe.

It has always appeared to me to be very difficult to set up a business in the local Thai market away from the Bar/Restaurant/Tourist scene. It seems that for a business to be successful long term you need to avoid an area which can be easily copied. Have seen many new ideas over the years but a couple of years later there are loads of copies usually supplying the same thing cheaper.

Would love to find something so don't have to do all this travelling.