BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Department of Business Development (DBD) is advising businesses to remain vigilant amid ongoing global and domestic uncertainties, but says positive indicators — including strong foreign investment and government stimulus — suggest the economy may stabilize in the second half of 2025.
Oramon Sapthaweetham, Director-General of the DBD, stated that while the global economy remains volatile and risks persist — including Middle East tensions, political uncertainties at home, new trade measures by partners, and the sensitive Thai–Cambodian border situation — there are still key positives for Thailand’s economic outlook.
Among the encouraging trends are the government’s economic stimulus programs, such as domestic tourism subsidies, accelerated public spending, support for SMEs, and progress in trade negotiations that could expand international market access for Thai businesses.
Foreign Investment Remains Strong
Between January and May 2025, Thailand recorded 426 new foreign investment cases worth a combined 88.94 billion baht — a 24% increase from the same period last year. The top investors came from Japan, the United States, China, Singapore, and Hong Kong, with most projects in technology, engineering, manufacturing, and logistics. Notably, the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) alone attracted 54% of all foreign investment.
Bio-Innovation Emerges as a Rising Star
The DBD also highlighted growth in the bio-innovation sector, which combines biotechnology with modern innovation. This industry saw a 13.08% increase in business registrations and a more than fivefold rise in registered capital — signaling strong momentum in line with Thailand’s BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) economy model.
Business Registration Trends
In the first five months of 2025, Thailand saw 36,815 new business registrations, down 5.68% year-on-year. However, registered capital increased by nearly 12% to 131.03 billion baht, reflecting investor confidence in higher-value ventures. Key sectors include construction, real estate, and food services.
On the other hand, business closures totaled 4,776 — up slightly by 3.31% — but the total capital of closed businesses dropped sharply by 72%, suggesting restructuring among larger firms and market exits by smaller ones.
Warning on Financial Filings
Oramon also issued a reminder to legal entities that have yet to submit their 2024 financial statements. As of May 31, 156,084 companies (or 19.85% of required filers) had not complied. Businesses can submit through the DBD e-Filing system, and late filers face penalties.
As of May 2025, Thailand had more than 2 million registered businesses, with a combined registered capital of 30.84 trillion baht. Over half operate in the service sector, followed by wholesale/retail and manufacturing. (TNA)
