Thailand is recognized as one of Asia’s most dynamic export economies and is a strategic gateway to ASEAN and global markets. With a highly developed logistics network, manufacturing capability and strong government support, Thailand is an ideal location for foreign investors who want to establish an export company.
Export oriented industries remain a key contributor to the Thai economy in 2025. Goods range from automotive and electronics to food, agricultural products, cosmetics and lifestyle items. For foreign entrepreneurs, Thailand offers reliable infrastructure, major seaport access, competitive labor costs and attractive advantages through the Board of Investment (BOI).
Understanding Export Business Opportunities in Thailand
Foreign-owned companies can export a wide range of goods produced or sourced in Thailand. Opportunities are significant in the following sectors:
- Agricultural and food products such as fruits, rice, seafood and health supplements
- Consumer goods including cosmetics, skincare, fashion and lifestyle items
- Industrial products such as machinery, automotive parts, electronics, rubber and plastics
- Herbal, spa and wellness related products
Demand for Thai goods continues to increase across the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. This creates long-term potential for companies that want to build a global export business with Thailand as their base.
Can Foreigners Own an Export Company 100 Percent in Thailand
Yes. Export companies are one of the few business categories in Thailand that allow 100 percent foreign ownership without the need for a Thai partner.
The Foreign Business Act does not restrict foreign ownership for businesses that export goods entirely outside Thailand. This is because export activities do not compete with domestic Thai businesses.
In summary:
- Foreigners may hold 100 percent of shares
- A Thai shareholder is not required
- A Foreign Business License (FBL) is not required as long as there is no domestic trading within Thailand
This makes export trading one of the simplest and most foreign-friendly structures available.
Legal Structures for Export Companies
Foreign investors may choose from several business structures based on operational needs:
Thai Limited Company with 100 Percent Foreign Ownership
Suitable for trading and export operations of various scales.
Key benefits include:
- Fast incorporation
- Eligibility for VAT and customs registration
- Ability to hire foreign employees
- No restriction on shareholder nationality
BOI Promoted Company
Ideal for companies involved in production, processing, assembly, packaging or technology based exports. BOI approval provides significant tax and non tax incentives.
Representative Office
Suitable for companies that only want to perform sourcing, research or quality control. Income generation is not allowed for this type of entity.
For most investors, the recommended structure is either a standard 100 percent foreign owned limited company or a BOI promoted company.
Step-by-Step: How to Register an Export Company in Thailand
Below is the typical process for setting up an export company which may be completed in two to four weeks with professional support.
Step 1: Reserve Company Name and Confirm Structure
Submit a name reservation to the Department of Business Development (DBD) and confirm shareholder, director and capital structure.
Step 2: Register the Company
File incorporation documents with the DBD.
- Recommended capital is 2 million THB for work permit eligibility
- Directors may be fully foreign
- A virtual or physical office address is acceptable
Step 3: Register for Corporate Tax ID and VAT
Obtain a corporate tax ID and register for VAT if annual revenue will exceed 1.8 million THB or if you want to claim VAT refunds for export activities.
Step 4: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Open a Thai corporate bank account under the company name for business transactions.
Step 5: Apply for Export Licenses if Required
Certain product categories need specific permits:
- Food and supplements through the FDA
- Cosmetics and personal care items through the FDA
- Agricultural products through the Ministry of Agriculture
- Industrial goods through relevant ministries and departments
Step 6: Register with Thai Customs
Register as an exporter with the Thai Customs Department to obtain access to the e Customs and e Export systems.
This registration enables:
- Submission of export declarations
- Customs clearance
- Claiming VAT refunds
Licenses and Regulatory Requirements
Most export companies do not require a general trade license, but product specific approvals apply. Here are common examples:
Product Category | Authority | Required License |
|---|---|---|
Food and supplements | FDA | Food product license and label approval |
Cosmetics | FDA | Cosmetic product notification |
Agricultural products | Ministry of Agriculture | Export permit |
Industrial equipment | Industrial Works Department | Export license |
Electronics | Ministry of Commerce | Certificate of Origin |
All exporters must also follow proper export documentation such as commercial invoices, packing lists and bills of lading.
Customs and Export Procedures in Thailand
Thailand operates a modern electronic customs system. The process for exporting goods typically includes:
- Preparing commercial documents
- Submitting an electronic export declaration
- Undergoing customs screening or inspection if necessary
- Receiving approval for shipment
- Requesting VAT refunds for eligible cases
Companies may also benefit from bonded warehouses and free zone facilities that offer tax advantages for goods destined for export.
BOI Promotion for Export Businesses
The BOI actively supports export driven industries. If your business involves manufacturing, processing, assembly or packaging, you may qualify for BOI promotion.
Benefits include:
- Up to eight years of corporate income tax exemption
- Exemption of import duty on machinery and raw materials
- Permission for 100 percent foreign ownership
- Work permit and visa facilitation for foreign experts
- Permission for land ownership
Eligible industries include:
- Food processing
- Herbal and cosmetic production
- Furniture and lifestyle manufacturing
- Machinery and industrial parts
- Software and digital export services
BOI promotion can significantly reduce operational costs and enhance global competitiveness.
Tax Benefits and Compliance Requirements
Export companies enjoy various tax advantages:
- Zero percent VAT on exported goods
- 20 percent corporate income tax for standard companies (BOI promoted companies may receive exemptions)
- Withholding tax exemptions for specific overseas payments
- VAT refunds for purchased materials used for export
Companies must also comply with Thai accounting and tax filing rules including:
- Monthly VAT filings through form PP30
- Annual corporate income tax via PND50 and PND51
- Annual audited financial statements submitted to the DBD
Professional assistance is recommended to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.
Conclusion
Thailand is one of the most attractive and straightforward countries in ASEAN for setting up an export company. With 100 percent foreign ownership, strong logistics infrastructure and BOI incentives available for many export related industries, Thailand provides a solid base for global trading.
With expert guidance and proper compliance, your export business can begin operations quickly and confidently. Act and Align Advisor is here to be your trusted partner throughout the entire journey.
