Rajah & Tann (Thailand) Limited

Shipping Practices in Thailand: Key Insights 🚢 The second half of 2024 saw much activity in the shipping and international trade industry. Apart from market developments, jurisdictions in Southeast Asia region have enacted changes to their legislative and regulatory framework, and have set out initiatives in their respective policy roadmaps. The courts have also seen significant cases being decided, impacting on the state of admiralty and maritime law. Our partners Saroj Jongsaritwang, KRIDA PHOONWATHU and Ittirote Klinboon along with Counsel, Rawi Meckvichai recently contributed their insights to our Regional Shipping Update highlighting some of the key developments in Thailand (with the assistance of Partner Jantapa Erjongmanee, Senior Associate Toon Thanakham and Associate Pimpawee J.). The key developments include in the area of legislation and regulation as well as in the area of policy. In Thailand, the legislation has introduced new requirements regarding the minimum ratio of Thai seafarers onboard Thai-flag vessels. In the area of policy, shipping regulators have been observed to be setting out clearer directions in their initiatives and areas of focus.  For Thailand, the country’s largest deep-sea port is undergoing the third phase of a major expansion. Our partners and counsel discussed in detail regarding these key developments along with the industry impacts and key takeaways. These developments underscore the continued evolution of Thailand's shipping sector and the broader Southeast Asian maritime landscape. For full report: https://lnkd.in/gVfBpEAc Saroj Jongsaritwang: https://lnkd.in/gNqQNWdQ Krida Phoonwathu: https://lnkd.in/gXviAFpv Ittirote Klinboon: https://lnkd.in/gCw8EFEg   #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #RTA #RajahTann #LWKA #Thailand #Shipping #Maritime #LegalUpdate #Regulation #ClientUpdate

Expanding into ASEAN presents a significant growth avenue for Japanese businesses, yet navigating its diverse markets requires a nuanced understanding of local practices and regulations. Our Japan Practice Consultant who is also a Japanese qualified lawyer, Shota Kawaguchi, recently contributed his expertise to a recent publication by Nikkei (under the supervision of JETRO - Japan External Trade Organization ), titled Nikkei MOOK "Expansion of Mid-Sized and Small Enterprises into ASEAN – 2025 Edition", where he offered critical insights into Thailand's foreign investment regulations, specifically addressing the Foreign Business Act and Labour Protection Act. The Publication (published by Nikkei BP, Nikkei Inc. Publishing) provides a comprehensive guide for Japanese businesses seeking to expand into the ASEAN region. It highlights practical guidance on ASEAN market entry, including planning, finance, and legal considerations, and features real-world examples of successful Japanese SMEs in the region while also emphasising the need to understand each country's unique rules and culture. For more information, please visit: https://lnkd.in/ghhq_9Cv #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #RTA #RajahTann #LWKA #Thailand #ASEANExpansion #JapaneseBusiness #LegalInsights #DoingBusinessInThailand #ForeignInvestment

Join Us at Rajah & Tann Asia’s Regional Employment Conference 2025! Navigating employment challenges across multiple jurisdictions in Southeast Asia is no easy feat. With the region receiving over US$230 billion in FDI annually, understanding labour laws, workplace investigations, and restructuring strategies is critical for businesses operating in this dynamic environment. This half-day conference brings together our leading regional employment experts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam to share their insights and best practices. 📅 Date: Thursday, 10 April 2025 🕣 Time: 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM SGT 📍 Venue: Marina One West Tower, Meeting Room, Singapore Conference Highlights: 💡 Plenary Session 1: Managing Cross-Border Workplace Investigations in Southeast Asia 💡 Plenary Session 2: A Guide to Multi-jurisdictional Restructuring and Retrenchments 💡 Panel Discussion / Q&A with Rajah & Tann Asia’s Regional Employment Partners 💡 Connect with industry peers and Regional Employment Partners 🎟️ Seats are limited – secure your spot now! In-person registration: https://bit.ly/3QWIUD0 Webinar registration: https://lnkd.in/gcYD8eai Learn more about our top-ranked Regional Employment Practice: https://lnkd.in/gWKqCVnK Desmond Wee: https://lnkd.in/gxTB2Zpa Jonathan Yuen: https://lnkd.in/giXKnBcr Tze Phern Ang: https://lnkd.in/g8EVVnhg Doreen Chia Ming Yee: https://lnkd.in/g5GPSaZ9 Jonathan Cham: https://lnkd.in/grhHufDC Ahmad Maulana: https://lnkd.in/ga2SCi4p Kamal Fikri: https://lnkd.in/gAJMZCUY Yee Ming Y.: https://lnkd.in/g_Jgf9Zg John Rolan: https://lnkd.in/gX_-easz Cesar Santamaria: https://lnkd.in/g3JwiAcr Piroon Saengpakdee: https://lnkd.in/gQ_XCBtj Logan Leung: https://lnkd.in/gg8XAkze VU THI QUE: https://lnkd.in/gZAjbyEW Thuy Huynh: https://lnkd.in/g4V-RACS Assegaf Hamzah & Partners Christopher & Lee Ong, a member firm of Rajah & Tann Asia Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) Rajah & Tann (Thailand) Limited Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers #RegionalEmploymentConference #EmploymentLaw #SEA #SoutheastAsia #Asia #event #seminar #conference #legal #law #lawyer #lawfirm #RajahTannAsia #RTA #LawyersWhoKnowAsia

🌟 Rajah & Tann at the 2025 Intelligent Asia Thailand Conference 🌟   It was an honour to be invited to participate in the 2025 Intelligent Asia Thailand Conference, organised by the Taiwan Printed Circuit Association as the only legal service provider of the exhibition and as one of the guest speakers at PCB Stage once again this year. The event was held at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center (BITEC) from March 6 to 8, 2025 and brought together 300+ global exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge advancements in industrial automation, semiconductor manufacturing, smart factories, and more. As a leading event in the electronics industry across Asia, this conference provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and networking, particularly between the China and Taiwan printed circuit industry leaders and the major supply chain players. During the event, Chengdong “C.D.” Xing (International Legal Counsel, Rajah & Tann Singapore), Xiaomin Wu (Counsel, China Practice, Rajah & Tann Thailand) and Kang Wenyu (China Practice Consultant, Rajah & Tann Thailand) represented the Firm, showcasing our cross-border expertise. Xiaomin took the stage as a guest speaker at the PCB session, delivering an insightful presentation titled “Key Legal Considerations for Investments in Thailand”. She shared practical strategies for navigating Thailand's regulatory landscape, including key licensing requirements and the challenges and opportunities for businesses entering the Thai market. The event focused on solutions for Thailand’s expanding PCB industry, tackling issues around global collaboration and compliance. Our session provided actionable insights to help businesses navigate complex regulations and unlock opportunities in this high-growth sector. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who visited our booth and attended our session. Your presence made the conference even more enriching. We eagerly anticipate future opportunities to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the vibrant electronics industry in Asia.   #RTA #RajahTannAsia #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #Thailand #IntelligentAsia2025 #PCBIndustry #CrossBorder #ThailandInvestment #LegalInsights #RegulatoryCompliance

💪🏻💗 IWD 2025: Accelerating Action for Her 💗💪🏻 Rajah & Tann Asia wishes all a Happy International Women’s Day! As a legal network stretching across ten jurisdictions in Asia, the embrace of equality and diversity is fundamental to the way we collaborate and excel. We are fortunate to be among inspirational women who strive for the best even when it seems daunting or impossible at times, and dedicated men who commit themselves to this cause for the women in their lives and all women globally. We believe humanity, regardless of gender, has a shared responsibility in battling biases against women and reaching gender parity, where opportunities and resources are equally accessible to all. RTA will continue to #AccelerateAction and urge all to join us in celebrating women and their limitless potentials! #IWD #IWD2025 #InternationalWomensDay #diversity #inclusion #genderequality #genderparity #women #empowerment #RajahTannAsia #RTA #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #LWKA

On 4 March 2025, we contributed another public hearing on the Digital Council Act for the Economy and Society of Thailand B.E. 2562 (2019) (The Digital Council Act) in accordance with the Rules on Legislative Drafting and Evaluation of the Outcomes of Law Act, B.E. 2562 (2019). The Digital Council Act has been in force since May 1, 2019 until now, which is a period of 6 years. This public hearing aimed to gather opinions and suggestions to ensure alignment with changes in technology, support the needs of the government sector, private sector, and the public and increase the country's digital competitiveness. The event was hosted by the National Board of Digital Economy and Society Office (BDE) in collaboration with Tris Corporation Company Limited, at the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok. As a private sector and legal expert, our firm, including Partner Piroon Saengpakdee, Senior Associates Itthiwut Saengratanadej, Benjarong Roongmaneekul, and Associates Prapavarin Aphaivongs, Chanoknate Kornphetphong, Suebsakul Palapong, contributed in providing our opinions and suggestions to the public hearing regarding the objectives and provisions of the Digital Council Act. The afternoon session featured a panel discussion titled “The Digital Council and its role in driving Thailand’s digital economy”. The session brought together leading experts in digital and technology industries to discuss the Digital Council's strategic role in advancing Thailand's digital economy. Among the distinguished speakers was our Co-Managing Partner, Supawat Srirungruang, an expert in technology, media, and telecommunications law. He emphasized the important role of the private sector in driving digital transformation and advocated for proactive government policies to strengthen Thai businesses, enabling them to compete more effectively on the global stage. Supawat provided strategic into the Digital Council Act, focusing on its influence on industry transformation and the essential balance between innovation, cybersecurity, and data protection. The public hearing brought together key stakeholders to discuss legal and regulatory developments related to the Digital Council Act. Government agencies, state enterprises, private sector organizations, and members of the public with relevant interests participated and provided their input. In addition to the public hearing and consultation, BDE is also gathering input through online questionnaires and executive interviews, with findings and results anticipated in June 2025. For more information, please see: https://lnkd.in/dxWFtHc9 Supawat Srirungruang: https://lnkd.in/dEkT7XWY Piroon Saengpakdee: https://lnkd.in/d3E84WiJ #RTA #RajahTannAsia #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #Thailand #DigitalCouncilAct #Legal #ThailandLaw #DigitalTransformation #PublicHearing

Thailand is exploring legalising casinos within integrated resorts to boost tourism and its economy. However, concerns exist that current draft regulations lack the strength and clarity needed to attract major international operators, potentially hindering the project's success. A recent article by iGamingBusiness, ‘Lax Thai gaming regulations may make it miss out on top casino companies’, explores the potential challenges posed by current gaming regulations, highlighting concerns that may deter leading international casino operators. Our Partner, Akkaraporn Muangsobha, shared his insights on Thailand's regulatory approach, emphasising the need for strong and effective gaming regulations. “The government has been vocal about adopting the approaches of the US and Singapore, yet the details of its plan are unclear”. “Ultimately, the success of Thailand’s casino market will depend on effective regulation and strict enforcement. It is crucial for the country to adhere to these principles to ensure a sustainable and well-regulated industry.” Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/dfFYCrDV Akkaraporn Muangsobha: https://lnkd.in/gpSA8SA3 #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #RTA #RajahTann #LWKA #Thailand #ThailandGaming #RegulatoryCompliance #CasinoDevelopment #LegalExpertise

Our Partners KRIDA PHOONWATHU and Ittirote Klinboon, along with Counsel Rawi Meckvichai and Senior Associate Prat Naka, recently contributed to the International Comparative Legal Guides (ICLG) – Litigation & Dispute Resolution 2025 (Expert Analysis Chapter, “Forum Shopping and Selection: A Strategic Guide to Thai and International Courts and Arbitration”). This chapter examines the strategic use of forum shopping and selection, particularly within Thailand’s legal system, highlighting key considerations such as governing law, procedural factors, and enforcement. The chapter provides practical insights to navigate jurisdiction selection effectively, emphasising the importance of informed decisions and proactive strategies. By understanding and applying the strategies discussed in this chapter, legal professionals and disputing parties can enhance their prospects for favorable resolutions. The Expert Analysis chapter is now live and freely accessible on ICLG.com! Access the chapter directly at: https://lnkd.in/dEHTyEAt. Click here for a downloadable PDF: https://lnkd.in/dSYHUpfF Krida Phoonwathu: https://lnkd.in/gZUS92uy Ittirote Klinboon: https://lnkd.in/duRSerwk #RTA #RajahTannAsia #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #Thailand #ICLG #ExpertAnalysisChapter #Litigation #DisputeResolution #ForumSelection #Publication #LegalExpertise

We recently contributed to a public hearing on the Development of Digitality for Economy and Society Act, B.E. 2560 (2017) (Digital Development Act). The Digital Development Act has now reached the legal requirement for a comprehensive performance evaluation in accordance with the Rules on Legislative Drafting and Evaluation of the Outcomes of Law Act, B.E. 2562 (2019). This public hearing aimed to gather opinions and suggestions to improve the law for maximum efficiency in order to strive toward Thailand's goal of digital economy.   The event was hosted by the National Board of Digital Economy and Society Office (BDE) in collaboration with Tris Corporation Company Limited, at the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok. As private sector and legal experts, our firm, including Partner Piroon Saengpakdee, Senior Associates Itthiwut Saengratanadej, Benjarong Roongmaneekul, and Associates Prapavarin Aphaivongs, Chanoknate Kornphetphong and Suebsakul Palapong, actively contributed to the public hearing by presenting the objectives and core principles of the Digital Development Act.   The event was well attended, with more than 100 representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and the public actively engaging in discussions to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive exchange of perspectives.   The afternoon session featured a highly anticipated panel discussion titled “7 Years of Transition to a Digital Economy: How Well Does the Digital Development Act Meet the Needs?”. The session brought together leading experts in digital and technology industries to discuss the Act’s impact and future direction. Among the distinguished speakers was our Co-Managing Partner, Supawat Srirungruang, an expert in technology, media, and telecommunications law, who was specifically invited to provide a sharp analysis of the Digital Development Act’s impact, business implications, and role in Thailand’s digital future.   In an era where digital technology is rapidly advancing and changing, the Digital Development Act serves as a key mechanism to drive Thailand towards new technological challenges. Continuous improvement of the law will enable Thailand to fully leverage these technologies to promote and support a sustainable and inclusive digital economy for all that benefits all.   In addition to the public hearing and consultation, BDE is also gathering input through online questionnaires and executive interviews, with findings and results anticipated in June 2025.   For more information, please see: https://lnkd.in/dps36CM2   Supawat Srirungruang: https://lnkd.in/gyr_Uija Piroon Saengpakdee: https://lnkd.in/deeAmVjD     #RTA #RajahTannAsia #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #Thailand #DigitalTransformation #Legal #ThailandLaw #Innovation #publichearing #consultation

🔊 Regional Competition Bites – Q4 2024 Highlights! Authored by our competition experts from #Cambodia, #Indonesia, #Malaysia, #Myanmar, #Philippines, #Singapore, #Thailand and #Vietnam, the latest edition of our Regional Competition Bites reflects on an active Q4 for regulators across Southeast Asia. 🔎 Enforcement Trends: • Heightened focus on cartels, bid-rigging, collusion, and consumer protection violations • Increased raids and unannounced visits post-COVID, with cases targeting both local and multinational companies 🤝 Merger Control: • Continued scrutiny of merger notifications, with key approvals and clarifications on pre-merger requirements • Anticipated rollout of new merger control regimes in 2025 📊 Policy & Market Studies: • Deep dives into e-commerce, digital markets, internet services, and digital advertising to modernise competition frameworks 💡 Key Takeaway: Regulators across the region are ramping up their efforts. Businesses should strengthen compliance frameworks and plan ahead to navigate heightened regulatory scrutiny. 🔊 Follow us on LinkedIn to stay updated on all the latest legal updates! 🔊 Read our latest legal update here: https://bit.ly/4i7NqKn Learn more about our Regional Competition & Antitrust Practice: https://lnkd.in/g3RbHZV4 #Competition #Antitrust #CompetitionBites #SoutheastAsia #RegionalUpdates #CompetitionLaw #CompetitionLawUpdates #LegalExpertise #BusinessLaw #legalupdate #guide #legal #lawyer #law #RajahTannAsia #RTA #LawyersWhoKnowAsia #LWKA Rajah & Tann Sok & Heng Law Office Assegaf Hamzah & Partners Christopher & Lee Ong, a member firm of Rajah & Tann Asia Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) Rajah & Tann (Thailand) Limited Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers