The Thai stock market continues to showcase significant growth as reflected by the latest registration statistics released on February 28, 2025. According to Ms. Sasikarn Watanachand, the Deputy Government Spokesperson, the number of new business registrations skyrocketed by 102% from December 2024, totaling 8,862 companies for January alone. This surge indicates growing confidence among entrepreneurs and investors, building on the resilient economic policies implemented by the government.
With registered capital reaching approximately 24,951 million baht, the significant increase is largely attributed to thriving sectors such as general construction, real estate, and restaurant businesses. Ms. Sasikarn highlighted, "The number of new company registrations jumped by 102% compared to December 2024, showcasing the strong confidence of entrepreneurs and investors moving forward." This optimism reflects the government’s consistent efforts to stimulate business activities and improve Thailand's economic environment.
Not only are these new registrations encouraging, but the report also indicates a healthy ratio of new business formations to business closures, estimated at 6:1 for January 2025. This is significantly above the average ratio of 4:1 from the previous year, reinforcing the notion of sustained economic growth. Over the past five years, the average ratio has been approximately 3:1, highlighting the remarkable improvement seen this year.
Among the notable registrations for January is one company with startup capital exceeding 1,000 million baht. This company, involved in the production and export of electronic components, points to the burgeoning interest and investment within the tech sector.
Estimations for future growth remain optimistic, with projections of about 27,000 to 28,000 new companies expected to be registered by the end of the first quarter, amounting to around 30% of the anticipated annual total. The government aims for approximately 90,000 to 95,000 new registrations for the entire year, solidifying its commitment to fostering business growth.
Currently, the total number of registered corporations stands at 1,973,692, with combined registered capital of 30.54 trillion baht. Out of these, 929,377 companies actively conduct business, illustrating the dynamic nature of Thailand's business ecosystem. It’s noteworthy to mention how enterprises are diversifying, with service-related businesses leading the registration numbers, accounting for 53.98% of the total. Other significant contributors include wholesale and retail trade businesses.
With the backdrop of government policy expectations and positive consumer sentiment, Thailand’s GDP growth rate for the final quarter of the previous year hit 3.2%, driven largely by aggressive fiscal measures. Officials remain dedicated to supporting businesses through economic stimulus packages, policy adjustments, and efforts to create competitive environments, both domestically and internationally.
Ms. Sasikarn outlined how government initiatives are aimed at empowering business operations, emphasizing, “The government is determined to stimulate economic growth across all dimensions.” These commitments are pivotal for ensuring sustained growth, reflecting the government's eagerness to lay down the framework for strong future investments.
Overall, the Thai stock market and business environment face promising prospects, evident from the rising registrations and supportive governmental policies. If these trends continue, the sentiment within the economic community suggests more entrepreneurs will be encouraged to take action and contribute to the country's economic landscapes, heralding what could be another flourishing year for Thailand's economy.