The top 12 businesses that foreigners often choose to set up in Thailand are:

1. Hospitality and Tourism: This includes hotels, resorts, restaurants, travel agencies, and tour operators, taking advantage of Thailand’s popularity as a tourist destination. Investing in a Hotel or guesthouses, boutique hotels, or resorts, catering to both domestic and international tourists are quite popular

2. Manufacturing and Export: Setting up manufacturing facilities to produce goods for export, taking advantage of Thailand’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and competitive production costs.Particularly in industries such as electronics, automotive, garments, and food processing. Engaging in import-export businesses, leveraging Thailand’s strategic location and strong trading networks.

3. Retail and Wholesale Trade: Retail businesses, including convenience stores, supermarkets, and specialty shops, as well as wholesale trade operations, are common choices for foreign entrepreneurs.

4. Food and Beverage: Restaurants, cafes, bars, and food production businesses are popular among foreigners due to Thailand’s renowned cuisine and vibrant dining scene. Opening a restaurant, cafe, or food establishment, serving both Thai and international cuisine, is a common choice for foreigners. Opening bars, nightclubs, or entertainment venues, particularly in tourist hotspots or expat communities.

5. Real Estate and Property Development: Many foreigners invest in Thailand’s real estate market, including residential properties, commercial buildings, and land development projects.

6. E-commerce and Online Businesses: With the growth of digital platforms, e-commerce, online marketplaces, and tech startups have become attractive options for foreign entrepreneurs. Engaging in online retail businesses, either by creating e-commerce platforms or selling products through established online marketplaces.

7. Health and Wellness: Health clinics, wellness centers, spas, fitness studios, and alternative therapy services are in demand as Thailand is known for its traditional healing practices and wellness tourism.

8. Education and Training: Foreigners establish language schools, international schools, vocational training centers, and tutoring services to cater to both local and expatriate populations.

9. Renewable Energy: With a focus on sustainability, foreign investors show interest in renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind farms, in line with Thailand’s push for clean energy sources.

10. Consulting and Business Services: Foreigners provide consulting services in various fields, such as legal, accounting, IT, marketing, and management, to support businesses operating in Thailand.

11. Fashion and Design: Thailand’s creative industries attract foreigners interested in fashion design, jewelry, handicrafts, interior design, and art-related businesses.

12. Fitness and Wellness: Establishing fitness centers, gyms, yoga studios, or offering personal training services appeals to health-conscious individuals in Thailand.

It’s important to note that the success of any business venture depends on various factors, including market demand, competition, location, regulations, and the entrepreneur’s skills and experience. Conducting thorough market research and seeking professional advice specific to your chosen industry can help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of success.

Interesting Reads : 

• What are the Do’s and Dont’s in Thailand?
• Growing and scaling a successful social enterprise in Thailand
• What you should consider before doing business in SE Asia
• How to do business in Asia when you are not based in Asia

Take a FREE Online Consultation here or get essential tips by downloading this e-Book on how to Startup in Thailand.