Government Streamlines Regulations to Facilitate Business Operations and Boost Competitiveness

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Government Streamlines Regulations to Facilitate Business Operations and Boost Competitiveness

The Chairperson of Regulatory Reform for Ease of Doing Business met with the Prime Minister. The meeting aimed to report on the progress of regulatory improvements and discuss the benefits that the private sector has gained from these reforms.

The initiative aligns with the government’s policy to address issues in law enforcement related to public services and business operations, adapting to evolving economic and social conditions. It also seeks to enhance efficiency in facilitating public access to government services and permits.

Following the meeting, the government plans to proceed as follows:

  1. International Film Industry: The foreign film production business in Thailand currently generates approximately 7 billion baht annually. With proposed regulatory reforms, this figure could potentially rise to 15 billion baht. The Department of Employment has initiated the following measures: a) waiving background checks for Chinese nationals entering Thailand as part of foreign film crews, provided that they have certification from the Film and Video Censorship Board b) amending ministerial regulations to allow designated coordinators to receive work permits as foreign film crew members, expected to be completed by August 2024 and c) classifying music festivals or concerts supported by government agencies as necessary or urgent events, exempting foreign participants from work permit requirements for stays up to 15 days.
  1. Regulatory Reform: The Office of the Public Sector Development Commission is revising the Licensing Facilitation Act of 2015. The draft of the new Act on Facilitating Licensing Consideration and Public Services has been approved in principle by the Cabinet. Key features include: a) establishing fast-track channels for public services and b) expanding the scope for fee payment in lieu of license renewal across all types of licenses.
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The Prime Minister suggested extending the 15-day exemption period for foreign film crews and music festival staffs, considering the time needed for pre-event preparations. The Chairman of the Committee agreed to discuss this matter further with the Department of Employment.

These reforms aim to streamline processes, attract foreign investment, and boost Thailand’s competitiveness in the international market, particularly in the film and entertainment industries. The government’s efforts to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and facilitate business operations are expected to significantly contribute to economic growth and enhance Thailand’s appeal as a destination for foreign business and creative endeavors.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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