Thailand has strengthened its national cybersecurity framework with the implementation of a Website Security Standard. The standard was officially released on September 16, 2025, and takes effect on the same day. Issued under the Cybersecurity Act B.E. 2562 (2019), this … Read More
Author Archives: Onnicha Khongthon
Thailand’s 24-Hour Content Takedown Rule: Compliance Challenges for Social Media Platforms
Thailand’s digital regulations are evolving rapidly. The Notification of the Electronic Transactions Commission regarding Measures for Preventing Technology Crimes on Social Media Platform Providers was published in the Royal Gazette on July 4, 2025 (“Notification”). It establishes a strict 24-hour … Read More
Foreign Satellite Operators in Thailand: NBTC Approval and Equipment Licensing Requirements
Foreign Satellite Operators in Thailand – Service and Equipment Approvals Required
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has addressed the activity by a foreign satellite operator offering direct-to-device connectivity. The NBTC reiterated that providing satellite internet services in Thailand without a license is unlawful. This clear position underscores the regulator’s heightened scrutiny of foreign market entry in the satellite sector.
Key Requirements
Type III License Required
Foreign satellite operators cannot lawfully provide services in Thailand without a Type III telecommunications business license issued by the NBTC.
Local Partner Structure
A Thai-licensed Type III operator must serve as the official licensee and compliance anchor, ensuring adherence to national security, interception, and consumer protection obligations.
Equipment Licensing
Satellite user terminals, ground stations, and direct-to-device equipment cannot be imported, sold, or used in Thailand without prior approval from the NBTC.
NBTC Enforcement
The regulator has shown that promotional activity alone may trigger regulatory action—equipment imported without authorization risks seizure at the border.
Conclusion
Thailand welcomes innovation in satellite communications; however, market entry requires full compliance with the NBTC’s regulations. The regulator’s recent action highlights the risks of unauthorized activity. Foreign operators should obtain both service and equipment approvals before entering the Thai market.
Formichella & Sritawat advises global technology and satellite companies on NBTC licensing, equipment approvals, and regulatory strategies for lawful entry into Thailand.
Why so few MVNOs? It’s the economics. An in-depth look at MVNOs in Thailand Under the NBTC Type 1 License?
Thailand’s telecom regulator, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), has introduced the Type 1 telecommunications license to encourage more competition among service providers, including Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). These operators, by design, don’t own their own telecommunications infrastructure … Read More
Why The NBTC Might Say No: Unraveling Thailand’s Type III License Rejections
NBTC’s Discretionary Rejections of Type III License Applications Thailand’s telecom regulator, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), has shown that meeting formal criteria on paper does not guarantee license approval. The NBTC actively exercises discretion to deny Type III … Read More
Thailand’s Media Revolution: Navigating Broadcasting, OTT, and Film Laws in 2025
Thailand’s media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift in 2025! From stringent NBTC broadcasting rules to emerging OTT regulations and film censorship reforms, the Kingdom is balancing innovation with tradition. Discover lucrative incentives for foreign productions—up to 30% cash rebates—and navigate compliance challenges with expert insights from Formichella & Sritawat. Dive into the future of Thailand’s media revolution today! … Read More
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Big Data in Thailand: Legal and Regulatory Developments 2025
1. Introduction to AI in Thailand Thailand continues to develop as a regional leader in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data regulation, balancing innovation with legal protections. In 2025, the legal environment will be shaped by existing … Read More
AI Regulation in Thailand: What Foreign and Domestic Providers Should Know
Thailand is establishing a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence, adopting a rights-based and risk-focused approach that will soon influence both domestic and international AI service providers. Introduction Thailand is developing formal regulations for artificial intelligence (AI) through a novel legal … Read More