An understanding of Thai culture and learning some basic Thai
will improve your success with business dealings in Thailand.
Market Key Facts
Source: CIA World Factbook (Currency, Population,
Language)
| Key Source Regions/Cities |
Bangkok (capital city), Chiang Mai (hub of the North), Cholburi
(Eastern Seaboard), Phuket and Hatyai (hub of the South) |
| Direct Routes into New Zealand |
Bangkok - Auckland
|
| Airlines |
Thai Airways International
|
| Leave Entitlement |
10 days per annum |
| Population |
67,089,500 (July 2010 est.)
|
| Languages |
Thai, English (second language among well-educated Thais)
|
| Currency |
Thai Baht (THB) |
| Total Outbound Travellers |
5.0 million (2009)
|
| Peak Booking Periods |
February to March
August to September
Early December (Christmas)
|
| Peak Travel Periods |
March, April through till mid May
October
December (dependent on airline seat availability)
|
Doing Business in Thailand
- Make the effort to learn some simple Thai phrases, particularly
greetings. Although English is usually spoken in business circles,
Thai is used generally. Thais will appreciate any efforts by a
foreigner to learn some of their language.
- Thai names consist of a given first name and a family last
name. Khun is the Thai non-gender term equivalent to Mr, Mrs, Ms,
or Miss. When introduced to a Thai, 'Khun' is placed before the
first name and it is appropriate to refer to the person as 'Khun
(first name)'.
- Buddhism is important in Thailand. Religious artefacts in
general and Buddha statues in particular are sacred. The head is
the most important part of the Buddha statue and should not be
touched. Any disrespectful handling of a Buddha statue is
considered desecration, which results in severe criminal
penalties.
- The Royal Family are highly revered and respected. Jokes about
royalty are not tolerated.
- When sitting, ensure that the soles of your feet are never
pointed towards anyone, particularly a monk or Buddha image. The
feet are considered the lowliest part of the body.
- Smile a lot. Smiling is equated with patience and Thais greatly
admire those who are patient.
- Thais avoid violence, conflict and confrontation. Losing your
composure means losing respect in Thailand. Do not be surprised to
encounter situations where an obvious injustice or abuse is
tolerated with an outwardly submissive attitude, for the sake of
not losing face.
- Around 26 per cent (17.5 million) of Thais use the
internet (Estimated June 2010. Source: http://www.internetworldstats.com/)
Want to know more about doing business in Thailand?
Visit the New Zealand Trade & Enterprise
corporate website