Factory and Industrial Estates Licensing
and Regulations in Thailand

The construction and operation of a factory in Thailand is strictly regulated by Thai laws. The Factory Act of Thailand stipulates the regulations for the construction, operation, expansion and safety of factories in Thailand, and also controls the levels of industrial pollution released through factory activities.

A factory is any enterprise that employs 7 or more workers to manufacture, assemble, pack, repair, produce, test, maintain, process, improve, store or destroy  any items or materials listed by Thailand’s Department of Industrial Works (Ministry of Industry) regulations.

If you would like to open and operate a factory in Thailand, you will likely need to apply for a Factory license or receive approval through advance notification to officials at the Ministry of Industry in Thailand. Certain types of factories do not require licensing or advance notification, and the level of oversight the government maintains over factory regulation depends on the determined amount environmental impact and protection deemed necessary.

The Thai Ministry of Industry maintains authority over how regulations are determined for the following categories:

• Type, category and description of any machinery or equipment to be used in the factory functions
• Where the factory is located, interior and description of the factory and the environment of the factory
• Requirements for workers who will take any specific duties or positions at the factory due to specialized skills
• Safety procedures and standards for any equipment used at the factory to help prevent, halt or reduce danger or damage to could occur to the property of the factory or to public places located within proximity of the factory
• The release of pollution, waste or any other harmful substance resulting from factory functions that could affect the environment
• Reporting of any information and documents by the owners of the factory to comply with Thai laws.
• Ensuring the safety of factory operations

Once a factory license is granted, it is valid only for a fixed period of time and applications for renewal must be filed within the relevant time limitations.

Related Topics:

Thailand Company Registration

Thailand Company Formation Lawyer

Employment Law Thailand