The fourth edition of International Employment Law  (Release 5, 2016), published by the Center for International Legal Studies, provides an overview of employment law in 43 countries worldwide. Kitti Thaisomboon, attorney-at-law, and David Beckstead, consultant, in the corporate and commercial department at Tilleke & Gibbins, contributed the Thailand chapter of this guide.

The Indonesian Parliament approved amendments to the country’s Trademark Law on October 27, updating the Trademark Law No. 15, which had been in force since 2001. The amended Trademark Law has now entered into force—it took effect on November 28, 2016—introducing a number of significant changes that refine current practices, add new features, and clarify certain provisions.

The Ministry of Labor, Immigration and Population announced on December 1, 2016, that the visa fees for Myanmar have been increased with immediate effect. Aimed at bringing Myanmar’s visa fees in line with those of other countries, the rise affects 11 out of 12 types of visas, except diplomatic visas, which will remain free of charge. Visas should be applied for prior to one’s intended travel dates at the Embassies of Myanmar or at authorized agents.

Theerapat Sombatsatapornkul, David Beckstead, and Chaiwat Keratisuthisathorn, all members of the Tilleke & Gibbins corporate and commercial team, have co-authored the Thailand chapter for the 2017 edition of Getting the Deal Through – Real Estate.

Starting in 2017, all medical devices imported into Vietnam will be required to register for marketing authorization (MA) licenses. Previously, imported medical devices did not require MA licenses; certain types were subject to import licenses, while others could be imported freely.

The criminal summons process can affect a company director for a number of reasons and at virtually any time. For example, a director may be summoned as a witness, as a representative for an accused company, or even as an individual accused of a crime. Further complicating matters is the possibility that a criminal summons could be issued to a company director without his or her direct knowledge. This increases the risk of noncompliance with a summons, possibly subjecting the director to additional liability.

On December 16, 2016, Thailand’s National Legislative Assembly passed draft amendments to the 2007 Computer Crimes Act (the “Act”). When it takes effect, the new Act will broaden the powers and reach of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. Competent officials under the Act may carry out investigations or confiscations if the crime (falling under the Computer Crimes Act or other criminal offenses) was committed using computer systems, computer data, or equipment for storing computer data.

Effective anti-corruption compliance programs are tailored for local jurisdictions. While bribery methods share common characteristics, different countries usually have their own business or cultural norms which impact corruption risks. In one country, for example, it may be common for bribes to be disguised as charitable contributions; while in another, political contributions are the favored method to make illicit payments.