On 12 May 2026, Thailand’s Cabinet has approved draft amendments that would reduce foreign business licensing requirements in selected sectors, but the government says the move is a targeted regulatory reform, not a broad liberalization of foreign business ownership. The change is intended to streamline approvals, remove duplication, and support investment in sectors already covered by specific regulators.
What the Draft Covers
The draft would exempt following eight categories of service businesses from the Foreign Business License requirement:
- Non-network telecommunications services
- Treasury center services
- Intra-group management services
- Domestic debt guarantee services
- Petroleum drilling services
- Certain secured lending services under securities and derivatives laws
- Certain derivatives-related agency, brokerage, advisory, or fund management services outside the Derivatives Act
- Space leasing for installation of electronic machines and vending machines
Government’s Clarification
Following public concern, the Prime Minister’s Office clarified that the reform does not mean foreigners can freely conduct business in Thailand without supervision. Instead, the exempted businesses remain subject to their existing sector-specific laws and regulators, including the NBTC, the Bank of Thailand, and the SEC. The government said the purpose is to reduce redundant licensing steps and make the regulatory framework better aligned with the modern economy.
Protection of Thai Businesses
The government also emphasized that it is still balancing investment promotion with protection of domestic industries. In particular, software development was removed from the draft after concerns were raised about the possible impact on Thailand’s digital sector. That decision suggests the authorities are pursuing a selective approach rather than a sweeping opening of restricted sectors.
