The Thai government is preparing to reform more than 7,000 economic laws, initially focusing on 10 to 20 key statutes in an effort to reduce obstacles to doing business in the country.
The goal is to improve government efficiency, reduce costs caused by redundant procedures and create a more investment-friendly economic environment, government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said on Wednesday.
Pakorn Nilprapunt, deputy prime minister for legal affairs, is overseeing the effort.
Ms Rachada said the government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul wants to shift the role of the state from a regulator to a facilitator, allowing businesses to operate more smoothly, with an initial focus on problems arising from subordinate legislation.
When Mr Anutin first took office after the dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra last September, he said a “regulatory guillotine” campaign could cut corporate costs by 134 billion baht annually, lifting GDP growth by 0.9% per year.
Although many primary laws contain appropriate principles, the large number of ministerial regulations, rules and announcements that have accumulated in practice have become burdens and added costs for entrepreneurs, Ms Rachada noted.
The government wants to accelerate the review of more than 7,000 subordinate laws and regulations to determine which should be retained, revised or repealed. Where regulation remains necessary, digital systems will be introduced to reduce procedures, increase transparency and minimise unnecessary discretionary authority.
Mr Pakorn discussed his mission recently with the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking and representatives from several business organisations. He asked participants to prioritise 10-20 subordinate laws that need urgent attention and propose amendments by next month.
The government expects to implement the proposals and establish working groups to monitor amendments on a case-by-case basis, ensuring practical outcomes and clear timelines.
Ms Rachada said the government is also pushing forward the concept of a “super licence” — a single licence that covers multiple activities and reduces the burden of applying for multiple permits.
In addition, the government plans to shift from a system requiring prior approval before starting operations to a post-audit system for eligible businesses, allowing operations to better keep pace with today’s economy.
One licensing reform that has already shown tangible results is the Board of Investment Fast Pass, which accelerated investment approvals and contributed significantly to an 18% increase in investment during the first quarter of this year, Ms Rachada said.
