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 Thailand Brief

No. 11 – April 16, 2025

Legal & Regulatory Updates

Thailand Enacts New Decree to Regulate Overseas Digital Asset Services

Synopsis

Thailand enacted a new Emergency Decree to regulate foreign digital asset service providers offering services to Thai users. The law expands Thai jurisdiction based on factors like language, currency, and operations linked to Thailand, aiming to strengthen consumer protection and prevent cybercrime. The amended Emergency Decree has come into effect on April 13, 2025.

Full text

On April 13, 2025, Thailand implemented the Emergency Decree on Digital Assets (No. 2) B.E. 2568 (2025 ）(the “Emergency Decree”), introducing significant amendments to the existing digital assets regulatory framework. This Emergency Decree aims to oversee digital asset businesses operating outside Thailand that offer services to individuals within the Kingdom, addressing concerns related to cybercrime and financial security.

The decree amends Section 26 of the Emergency Decree on Digital Assets B.E. 2561 (2018) to include foreign digital asset service providers under Thai jurisdiction if they serve clients in Thailand. Additionally, Section 26/1 outlines specific criteria under which a foreign digital asset business is considered to be operating within Thailand:

•   The operator's content is displayed in Thai, either fully or partially.

•   The operator's domain name ends with ".th", ".ไทย", or references Thailand.

•   The operator allows transactions in Thai baht (THB) or through Thai financial institutions.

•   The operator's terms specify that Thai law governs the transactions or disputes are resolved in Thai courts.

•   The operator pays for services that target Thai users, such as web indexing.

•   The operator has a physical presence or personnel providing support in Thailand.

•   Any other characteristics as determined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

These provisions are designed to ensure that foreign digital asset service providers comply with Thai regulations when engaging with Thai residents, thereby enhancing consumer protection and financial system integrity.

The enactment of this Emergency Decree signifies Thailand's commitment to regulating the rapidly evolving digital asset landscape. By extending regulatory oversight to foreign entities serving Thai clients, the government aims to mitigate risks associated with unregulated digital asset activities, such as fraud and money laundering.

References

[Nation]

Thailand's Cabinet Has Passed the Stricter Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill

Synopsis

Thailand's House of Representatives approved a new Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill on March 12, 2024, aiming to modernize and tighten alcohol regulations. Key provisions include stricter advertising bans,  time   restrictions  on   consumption,  increased  penalties  for  violations,  and   rehabilitation measures for alcohol-related disorders. However, the Bill has raised concerns among small-scale producers over its potential impact.

Full text

In a significant legislative move, Thailand's House of Representatives has passed a new Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill (Full name: Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (No. ..) B.E. ... )(the “Bill”), aiming to modernize the nation's alcohol regulations. The Bill is approved on March 12, 2024, seeks to replace the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act B.E.2551 (2008).

According  to  the  Bill,  it  is  introducing  several  key  amendments  to  restrict  alcoholic  beverage consumption and regulate the seller under stricter criminal liability.

Key Provisions of the New Bill:

•     Expanded Authority for Officials: The Bill reorganizes the structure and expands the duties and authorities of officials responsible for controlling alcoholic beverages.

•     Consumption Time Restrictions: It introduces restrictions on the time periods during which consumers can consume alcoholic beverages in establishments such as restaurants and nightclubs.  Establishment  owners  are  required  to  inform  consumers  about  these  time restrictions, with criminal liabilities imposed for non-compliance.

•     Comprehensive Advertising Ban: The Bill proposes a complete prohibition on all forms of alcoholic  beverage  advertisements.  Limited  exceptions  are  provided for  public  relations activities by manufacturers or importers, which must offer socially constructive information and knowledge. Disguised advertisements, such as promoting non-alcoholic products using alcohol brand names or symbols, are also prohibited. Additionally, sponsorships that may promote alcoholic beverages or adversely affect control policies are banned.

•     Increased Penalties: Manufacturers or importers who violate the advertisement prohibitions face increased penalties under the new Bill.

•     Rehabilitation  Measures:  The  bill  introduces  provisions  for  individuals  suffering  from alcohol use disorders, labeling them as "Persons who have Problems Caused by Alcoholic Beverages," and includes a chapter on rehabilitation measures for these individuals.

While the draft bill reflects the government's commitment to addressing alcohol-related issues, it has sparked discussions among stakeholders. Some industry representatives express concerns about the potential impact on small and communitybased liquor producers, who may face challenges in promoting their products under the stricter advertising regulations. The Bill's progress and potential amendments will be closely monitored as it moves through the legislative process.

References

[Siam Legal] [BakerMcKenzie]

Policy Developments

Thailand Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Short-Term Condo Rentals

Full Text

Thai authorities are escalating efforts to eliminate  unauthorized short-term condominium rentals, particularly those facilitated through online platforms like Airbnb. These rentals violate the Hotel Act B.E. 2547 (2004), which mandates that properties offering stays of less than 30 days must possess a hotel license. Non-compliance can result in fines up to THB 20,000, with additional daily penalties of THB 10,000 until the illegal activity ceases.

The House Committee on Consumer Protection has urged state agencies to collaborate with online booking platforms to ensure only licensed accommodations are listed. This initiative aims to integrate hotel license databases with online travel agencies, requiring properties to input valid license codes to accept bookings. Such measures are intended to reduce illegal accommodations, enhance service standards, and ensure guest safety.

Recent enforcement actions include raids on condominiums in Bangkok , particularly on Sukhumvit and  Sathorn  districts,  following  complaints  about  daily   rentals  and  associated  disturbances. Authorities  discovered  that  some  property  owners,  including  foreign  investors,  were  converting residential units into unlicensed hotels, often using unconventional methods like leaving keys in public lockers for guest access.

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul,  has directed the Department of Provincial Administration to intensify inspections and legal actions against violators. Residents are encouraged to report illegal rentals to the “ Damrongtham Center” or local authorities to facilitate prompt investigations.

These  crackdowns  aim to  restore  order  in  residential  communities,  protect  the  hotel  industry's integrity, and ensure compliance with national laws governing property rentals.

References

[Nation] [Bangkok Post] [Thai News]

Thai  Senate  Committee  Initiates  Review  of  Entertainment  Complex  Bill  Among  Political Scrutiny

Full Text

On April 23, 2025, Thailand's Senate committee is set to commence its review of the proposed Entertainment Complex Bill (the “Bill”), which includes provisions for legalizing casino operations. The 34-member committee, composed of 12 external experts, will undertake a 180-day study to assess the Bill's implications.

Previously, the Entertainment Complex Bill was approved by the Thai Cabinet on March 27, 2025, aims to boost tourism and economic growth by establishing integrated resorts that include casinos. Despite the government's projections of attracting at least THB 100 billion in new investments and increasing annual tourism  revenue  by over THB  12  billion,  public sentiment  remains divided. A January 2025 poll by the National  Institute of Development Administration revealed that 59% of respondents opposed the legalization of casinos and entertainment complexes.

As the Senate committee begins its review, the progress will be closely monitored by stakeholders and the public. The outcome of this legislative process will significantly influence Thailand's approach to integrating casino operations within its tourism and economic development strategies.

References

[The Bangkok Post]  [Reuters 2][Reuters1]

Business & Trade Insights

Thailand  Prepares  Strategic  Response  to  U.S.  Tariff  Measures   Prior  to  the  Meeting  on April 21, 2025

Synopsis

Thailand will send a high-level delegation to Washington on April 21 to negotiate with U.S. officials over a 36% punitive tariff. The talks aim to reduce the tariff, address trade imbalances, and strengthen cooperation between two countries. To show goodwill, Thailand plans to (i) cut the 73% tariff on U.S. corn  imports,  (ii)  increase  imports  of  U.S.  goods  like  LNG  and  aircraft,  and  (iii)  tighten  export monitoring to prevent tariff circumvention. These cautious approach strategies are supported by the economic expert. Despite Thailand’s economy remains resilient since GDP forecast revised from 3 to 1 percent.

Full Text

A  high-level  delegation  led  by  Finance  Minister,  Pichai  Chunhavajira,  and  Commerce  Minister ,Phumtham Wechayachai, is scheduled to meet with U.S. trade officials in Washington on April 21. The  discussions  are  expected  to  focus  on  reducing  the  36%  punitive  tariff,  addressing  trade imbalances, and exploring ways to expand bilateral cooperation.

The Ministry of Commerce has confirmed that while the U.S. acknowledged Thailand’s request for negotiations,  no specific commitment  has  been  made  regarding Thailand’s  place  in the queue. Nevertheless, officials are optimistic about finding a mutually beneficial resolution through careful diplomacy.

To demonstrate goodwill and de-escalate tensions between the countries, Thailand has prepared several strategic trade adjustments:

•    Tariff Reduction on  U.S.  Corn  Imports: Thailand will  lower the 73% tariff on U.S. corn imports, a move aimed at reducing costs in its domestic animal feed and livestock sectors. This change is expected to benefit Thai farmers and help ease inflationary pressures on food prices.

•     Increased  Imports of  U.S. Goods: To address the trade  imbalance, Thailand  plans to increase  its imports of high-value American goods such as liquefied  natural gas (LNG), aircraft,  medical equipment, and advanced technologies. These  measures aim to signal Thailand’s commitment to fair trade and diversified economic cooperation.

•     Stricter Export Monitoring: Thai authorities will tighten inspections on exports to ensure goods are not routed through third-party countries to circumvent U.S. tariffs. This proactive step supports transparency and aligns with international trade compliance standards.

Independent political and economic analyst, Somjai Phagaphasvivat, supports Thailand’s cautious stance, emphasizing that any aggressive response could backfire and further harm exports. “This is not a full-scale global trade war yet,” Somjai said. “We must remember that the U.S. is also facing immense domestic pressure. If we proceed diplomatically, we may avoid the worst-case scenario.”   He added that countries with less economic leverage, such as Thailand, should avoid confronting the U.S. head-on and instead focus on readiness, monitoring, and strategic negotiations — unlike larger powers such as China and the European Union, which may opt for direct retaliation.

Though the  tariffs  pose  a  short-term  threat to  certain  sectors,  analysts  believe that Thailand’s economy remains resilient. GDP growth for 2025 has been revised down from 3% to 1%, reflecting the slowdown, but experts emphasize that this is not yet indicative of a full-blown crisis.

Exporters are advised to stay informed, diversify markets where possible, and prepare for temporary disruptions in demand from the U.S. market. At the same time, the Thai government is working to strengthen trade partnerships with other economies to cushion the blow from the tariffs.

References

[Bangkok Post1][Bangkok Post 2][Bangkok Post 3]