Which business structures can I use for a jewelry business in Thailand?

Jewelry businesses in Thailand can be set up as a sole proprietorship, ordinary partnership, limited partnership, or limited company. Each affects liability, control, and growth potential. Foreign investors usually choose a limited company, allowing up to 49% foreign ownership unless BOI promotion is secured, with minimum capital generally THB 2 million.

What are the key registration steps for a jewelry business in Thailand?

Registration requires commercial registration with the DBD, identity verification of directors, proof of office address, and capital verification. Jewelry manufacturers must also obtain Ministry of Industry certification. BOI-approved firms may access incentives. Registration usually completes within 30 days, and missing documents can result in penalties or business interruptions.

Which licenses and permits are required to operate a jewelry business?

Jewelry businesses must secure a commercial registration certificate, factory or manufacturing licenses from the Ministry of Industry, and specialized import/export permits if applicable. All applications require certified IDs, proof of address, and floor plans. Licenses typically require annual renewal and are subject to compliance inspections.

How is capital verification performed for jewelry businesses?

Thai authorities require documentation proving the origin of capital, such as bank statements and transaction records, along with written explanations. Periodic audits and in-person verification may occur. Maintaining updated and verifiable records ensures faster registration and demonstrates compliance with anti-money laundering regulations.

What are the import rules for gems, metals, and jewelry in Thailand?

To import gems, metals, or jewelry, businesses must register with e-Customs, submit import declarations, provide HS codes, and issue vessel or shipment reports. Some items require import permits and must not appear on restricted or prohibited lists. Failure to comply can delay clearance and incur fines.

How do I manage customs duties, taxes, and import documentation?

Import duties vary from 2-5% for raw gems to up to 20% for certain gold jewelry. A 7% VAT applies on CIF plus duty. Payments must go through approved channels, and accurate documentation is essential for smooth clearance and compliance.

What taxes apply to jewelry businesses in Thailand in 2025?

Jewelry businesses are subject to 7% VAT, 20% Corporate Income Tax, and applicable withholding taxes. Certain gems and precious metals may have specific duties. Timely reporting of sales, imports, and income is mandatory to avoid penalties.

Are there VAT exemptions or BOI incentives for jewelry businesses?

VAT exemptions are available for unformed precious metals and gems over 96.5% purity, with membership in recognized trade associations. BOI-approved firms can enjoy up to three years corporate tax holidays, import duty exemptions, and relaxed foreign ownership limits.

What export rules must Thai jewelers follow?

Exporting jewelry requires commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and transport documents. Destination countries may require hallmarking and gem authenticity certificates. Compliance with anti-counterfeiting regulations is mandatory to avoid severe penalties.

What are the global ethical sourcing standards for Thai jewelry businesses?

Businesses must track gem and metal origins, avoid conflict minerals, and follow OECD Due Diligence Guidance. They should verify suppliers under the Thai Precious Stones and Precious Metals Act and document removal of restricted substances. Adhering to ethical sourcing ensures global compliance and strengthens brand reputation.

Can foreigners fully own a jewelry business in Thailand?

Foreigners can own jewelry businesses fully if the company is BOI-promoted or operating in unrestricted activities. Setting up in duty-free or strategic zones like Chanthaburi or Gempolis reduces import duties, speeds customs clearance, and provides access to skilled labor and established supply chains.

What ethical sourcing and traceability rules apply to Thai jewelers?

Thai jewelers must verify gemstone traceability, avoid conflict minerals, and comply with OECD Due Diligence Guidance. Businesses should maintain proper documentation, hold trade association memberships, and ensure VAT and import benefits are valid, supporting both legal compliance and global reputation.

Starting a Jewelry Business in Thailand: Legal & Import Rules

Opening a Jewelry Business in Thailand has never been more timely, with customs adopting a fully electronic system in 2025, every permit, invoice, and gem certification is now tracked in real time.

Are you prepared to navigate capital verification, foreign ownership caps, and strict ethical sourcing rules without costly delays or shipment holds?

Start jewelry business Thailand licensing taxes import export compliance

Recent changes to Thai company law and VAT exemptions make this the moment for business owners and investors to align structure, licensing, and compliance for maximum access and security.

Whether you’re establishing a boutique shop in Bangkok or scaling up with BOI privileges, understanding the latest legal landscape empowers you to seize Thailand’s booming jewelry trade with confidence and peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

Select the optimal business structure to balance ownership, liability, and growth; most foreign investors choose a limited company for up to 49% foreign ownership and legal certainty.
Complete commercial registration with the Department of Business Development (DBD) and secure all required industry and manufacturing permits to operate without risk of fines or interruptions.
Prepare thorough capital verification documentation to meet anti-money laundering regulations, including bank statements, transaction records, and written explanations of all funding sources.
Register with Thailand’s e-Customs system and use precise HS codes and digital import declarations to ensure smooth customs clearance for gems, metals, and jewelry.
Factor in import duties and VAT: Most jewelry imports face 2-20% duty rates plus 7% VAT (calculated on CIF value), payable via approved e-platforms for timely release.
Leverage VAT exemptions and BOI incentives by importing raw gems, joining recognized industry associations, and notifying the Revenue Department to enjoy tax holidays and import duty waivers.
Rely on accurate export documentation including certificates of origin, commercial invoices, and compliance with hallmarking laws to access key global markets and avoid shipment delays.
Prioritize ethical sourcing practices using OECD frameworks and supplier traceability checks to meet international standards, protect your brand, and maintain legal compliance.

Jewelry Business Structure & Registration
Essential Licenses and Permits for Jewelry Businesses
Import Rules & Customs Procedures
Taxes & VAT for Jewelry Companies
Export & Ethical Sourcing Compliance
FAQ: Starting a Jewelry Business in Thailand
Conclusion

Jewelry Business Structure & Registration

Choosing Between Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, or Limited Company

When opening a jewelry business in Thailand, owners must decide between a sole proprietorship, ordinary partnership, limited partnership, or limited company. Each legal structure affects control, risk, and future growth.

Sole proprietorship: single owner, unlimited liability, fast setup.
Ordinary partnership: multiple owners sharing liability and profit equally.
Limited partnership: split between general partners (full liability) and limited partners (liability up to their investment).
Limited company: separate legal entity, liability limited to capital, supports easier expansion and transfer of ownership.

Foreign shareholders face stricter rules. Overseas investors often choose a limited company structure, as it permits up to 49% foreign ownership without Board of Investment (BOI) promotion. Minimum capital for foreign-owned limited companies is generally THB 2 million.

Key Registration Steps and Legal Requirements (2025)

Every jewelry business in Thailand must complete commercial registration with the DBD. The 2025 regulations require:

Identity cards and passports for directors.
Proof of office address (house registration or lease agreement).
Capital source verification, including supporting documents.
Map showing business location.

Additional rules apply for jewelry manufacturing:

Obtain Ministry of Industry certification for factory operations.
Eligible businesses can apply for BOI incentives (tax holidays, import duty exemption).

Registration costs vary, but most processes finalize within 30 days. Failure to register or provide accurate documents can lead to penalties and business interruptions.

The right structure and timely registration are critical for legal certainty and attracting investment. Secure your business foundation from the start to tap into Thailand’s jewelry market with confidence.

Essential Licenses and Permits for Jewelry Businesses

To operate a jewelry business in Thailand, securing the correct licenses is essential to avoid penalties and delays.

Business owners must obtain:

A commercial registration certificate from the Department of Business Development (DBD)
Manufacturing or factory operation licenses for jewelry production from the Ministry of Industry
Specialized permits for import or export activities, depending on the product type

Applications require certified documents such as ID, proof of address and floor plans. Renewals are typically annual, with compliance checks scheduled throughout the year.

How Capital Verification Works in Thailand

Capital verification protects against money laundering and ensures a legitimate funding source.

Thai authorities require:

Documentation that clarifies where the capital originates (bank statements, transaction records)
A written explanation detailing all capital sources
Periodic audits and in-person verification of funds during registration

Keep all documents updated and ready for inspection. A comprehensive file helps accelerate audits and demonstrates good faith.

Import Rules & Customs Procedures

Import Regulations for Gems, Metals, and Jewelry

Starting a jewelry business in Thailand requires strict compliance with advanced customs procedures and electronic filing.

To import gems, precious metals, or finished jewelry, business owners must:

Register with Thailand’s e-Customs system and obtain a digital certificate
Prepare an import declaration for each shipment
Provide Harmonized System (HS) codes for accurate tariff classification
Submit a vessel arrival report to customs authorities
Determine if an import permit is necessary and verify goods are not on the restricted or prohibited list

Failing to complete any of these steps can delay clearance or lead to penalties. The Thai Customs Department offers the latest updates and guidance.

Managing Customs Duties, Taxes, and Import Documents

All imported jewelry items undergo inspection and screening, and are subject to:

Import duty rates of 2-5% for raw gems, and up to 20% for certain gold jewelry (rates vary by HS code)
7% Value Added Tax (VAT), calculated on CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) plus duty
Duty payments completed through approved e-payment platforms or bank agents

Providing accurate documentation streamlines inspection and avoids shipment delays.

Efficient customs processing and diligent record-keeping help safeguard your jewelry business from unexpected costs, establishing trust with both regulators and global clients.

Taxes & VAT for Jewelry Companies

Main Business Taxes in 2025

Jewelry businesses in Thailand face several key tax obligations in 2025. These include:

Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate of 7% applies to sales and imports unless exempt.
Corporate Income Tax: Usual rate for companies is 20% on net profits.
Withholding Tax: Rates vary based on transaction and payment types.
Specific jewelry duties: Certain gems and precious metals may attract product-specific tariffs.

Accurate, timely reporting is required for all sales, imports, and business income. Consistent record-keeping supports compliance and audit readiness.

VAT Exemptions and BOI Benefits

Thailand offers targeted VAT exemptions and Board of Investment (BOI) tax incentives, reducing business costs.

To qualify for VAT exemption under categories A1 or A2:

Businesses must import or sell unformed jewelry materials (e.g., raw gems, gold, or platinum over 96.5 percent purity).
Membership in a recognized association (such as the Thai Gem & Jewelry Traders Association or the Chamber of Commerce) is mandatory.
Notification to the Revenue Department is required before enjoying the benefits.

BOI-promoted firms also enjoy:

Up to three years of corporate income tax holiday.
Exemptions on import duties for machinery and raw materials.
Potential for relaxed foreign ownership limits.

Explore the Thai Revenue Department VAT guidance for current updates.

Tax efficiency is strategic: knowing when VAT exemptions and BOI incentives apply can be transformative for jewelry companies looking to grow in Thailand’s market.

Consistent preparation and association membership put you in the strongest position to capitalize on Thailand’s pro-business policies.

Export & Ethical Sourcing Compliance

Export Rules and Documentation for Thai Jewelers

Exporting jewelry from Thailand requires strict compliance with international regulations and accurate documentation.

Key documents every exporter must prepare include:

Commercial invoices detailing shipment contents
Packing lists describing item specifications
Certificates of Origin verifying Thai production
Bills of Lading or Airway Bills tracking transport

Destination countries may also mandate hallmarking for precious metals and authenticity certificates for specific gems.

Anti-counterfeiting rules are robust: Thai authorities differentiate between counterfeit goods (illegal trademark use) and imitation jewelry (openly declared artificial products), with strict penalties for fraudulent exports.

Global Ethical Standards for Sourcing and Trade

Ethical sourcing is both a legal and reputational priority for Thai jewelry companies.

Adopt these standards for compliance and global trust:

Use due diligence frameworks like the OECD Due Diligence Guidance
Track gem and metal origins to avoid conflict minerals
Verify suppliers against the Thai Precious Stones and Precious Metals Act
Screen for restricted substances (e.g., lead, mercury) and document removal steps

Managing import/export risks means rigorous audit trails and transparent supply chains.

Clear processes and transparent sourcing empower jewelry businesses to thrive in a global market while meeting rising ethical standards.

FAQ: Starting a Jewelry Business in Thailand

What are the key requirements to start a jewelry business in Thailand?

Opening a jewelry business in Thailand hinges on capital requirements, ownership structures, strategic locations, and ethical sourcing.

Minimum investment for foreign-owned limited companies is usually THB 2 million.
Common entity types include Thai majority or Board of Investment (BOI)-promoted firms.
Capital must be verifiable through strict documentation to comply with anti-money laundering standards.

Can foreigners own jewelry businesses in Thailand?

Foreigners can fully own jewelry businesses in Thailand with BOI promotion or for certain unrestricted activities.
Investing in duty-free or strategic zones (like Chanthaburi or Gempolis) can reduce import duties, speed customs clearance, and provide access to specialist labor.
Example: Setting up in the Chanthaburi Gem Market connects you directly to a robust supply chain and tax privileges.

What are the ethical sourcing and traceability rules for Thai jewelry businesses?

Ethical sourcing by law includes verifying gemstone traceability, avoiding conflict minerals, and meeting international due diligence criteria such as OECD Guidance.
Businesses must meet documentation and membership standards for VAT and import advantages.

Every step in the registration and import process protects your investment, from initial capital verification to ethical sourcing protocols.

Conclusion

Launching a jewelry business in Thailand is a pathway to growth, but success hinges on putting robust legal and import frameworks in place from the very start.

By proactively securing the right structure, preparing compliant documentation, and embedding ethical practices, you build lasting trust with both regulators and clients.

Ready to transform your vision into a thriving reality? Contact us for tailored legal guidance, efficient registration and ongoing strategic support, so you can focus on what matters most: growing your jewelry brand with clarity and confidence.