Thai language, belonging to the Tai family, is the main language in Thailand although there are several regional dialects. Other languages spoken in Thailand are Chinese, Lao, Malay and Mon-Khmer, while English use is becoming more prevalent in government and commerce. English is also being taught as a second language in schools and universities, which enables the English speaking visitor or business person in Thailand to have little trouble conversing.

According to the CIA World Fact Book, Thailand has a well-developed infrastructure, a free-enterprise economy, generally pro-investment policies, and appears to have fully recovered from the 1997-98 Asian Financial Crisis. It states that the country was one of East Asia's best performers from 2002-04, and the Thai economy grew 4.5 percent in 2007.

Doing Business in Thailand
Thais prefer doing business with people they respect – most of us do. But, it also helps to understand some of the standard norms and expectations for doing business in Thailand.

• Patience. Relationships develop slowly and do not materialize after one meeting; it may take several meetings.



• Rank and file. Always be respectful and courteous when dealing with others as this leads to the well-balanced relationships necessary within the Thai business environment. Remember to always respect rank and the age of a person. Elders are highly respected.



• Non-verbal, non-verbal, and more non-verbal. Thai communication is formal and non-verbal communication is often more important than verbal communication. Since it is difficult for most Thais to say “no,” be aware of their non-verbal communication. Plus, watch your body language and facial expressions, as these will be believed over your words.



• Business meetings. According to ExecutivePlanet.com appointments are necessary and should be made at least a few days in advance, and follow up the day before to confirm. It is also a good idea to send a list of who will be attending the meeting and their credentials so that Thais know the relative status of the people attending the meeting and can plan properly. Tip: Remain standing until told where to sit. Again, the hierarchical culture has strict rules about rank.



• Dress attire. Business attire is conservative. Men should wear dark colored business suits and women should wear business suits or conservative dresses.



• Business card etiquette. Business cards are given out after the initial handshake and greeting. Although business will most likely be conducted in English, we suggest having one side of your business card translated into Thai. Tip: Look at a business card for a few seconds before placing it on the table or in a business card case.

For more information about translating materials or localizing your website for Thai speakers, contact us.

SOURCES:
U.S. State Department
CIA World Fact Book
Ethnologue.com
ExecutivePlanet.com