Within the past two years, Thailand has experienced a number of events that have called into question the country’s political stability. In this article, David Lyman reflects on the situation and sees a number of promising signs which indicate that the rule of law is continuing to be strengthened and that the political infighting can be overcome.

This open letter from David Lyman to the clients of Tilleke & Gibbins addresses the events that unfolded in April 2009, when political demonstrations—sometimes violent—took place in Bangkok and Pattaya. Although the protests by the so-called Red Shirts attracted a great deal of media attention, life continued without serious disruption in Thailand’s capital.

Within the past two years, Thailand has experienced a number of events that have called into question the country’s political stability. In this article, David Lyman puts these events into historical perspective by looking back on the path that has led to the current situation. This article provides a thorough overview of Thailand’s recent history and explains many of the driving factors underlying the political instability of 2008. The article concludes that there is reason for optimism about Thailand’s future, with progressive development likely to return to the country.

This chapter provides an overview of the legal system and key laws for foreign companies doing business in Thailand. Presented in a question-and-answer format, the chapter examines the rules governing foreign investment, business vehicles, employment, tax, competition, intellectual property, marketing agreements, e-commerce, data protection, and product liability.