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According to a survey by the UN Commission for Trade and Development in 2004 Thailand ranks as the world's fourth most attractive nation for foreign investment . Thailand is a perfect destination for investment. Here are the country's top ten advantages:
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Thailand enjoys a strategic location right at the heart of Asia– home to what is regarded today as the largest growing economic market. It serves as a gateway to Southeast Asia and the Greater Mekong sub-region, where newly emerging markets offer great business potential. From Thailand , it is convenient to trade with China , India and the rest of Asia.
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Aside from its excellent location, Thailand has the reputation of being one of the founding members of the ASEAN. Being the center of economic cooperation between ASEAN member nations, Thailand has trade access with this continuously growing market, with products from Thailand easily capable of reaching the region's 500 million people.
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Social and political stability
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Thailand enjoys uninterrupted social and political stability. The country's form of government – constitutional monarchy – allows democratic processes and reforms, and is balanced by the Thai people's peace-loving nature, high reverence for the Thai Monarchy, and devotion to the teachings of Buddhism.
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Economically, this country of 64 million people is characterized by steady growth, reaching an impressive GDP of 6.7% in 2003 – second only to China-. Abundant natural resources and the availability of skillful workers help sustain economic confidence, resulting in the rapid growth of the country's industrial production.
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Sufficient infrastructure
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Thailand has good infrastructure ready for foreign investors. Improved and modernized transportation facilities, as well as upgraded communications and IT networks, ensure optimum business and living conditions. State-of-the-art industrial estates boast sophisticated facilities and superior services.
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The country's well-defined investment policies focus on liberalization and encourage free trade. Foreign investments, especially those that aim to promote skills enhancement, technology and innovation are highly encouraged by the government. The 2004 survey of the UN commission for Trade and Development named Thailand the world's fourth most attractive nation for foreign direct investment.
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Government support and incentives
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The Thai government has established resources to support and assist investors. Through the Board of Investment, the government offers a range of tax incentives, support services and import duty concessions available to an extensive list of businesses that are regarded as priority or promoted industries. Other government organizations, like the Department of Export Promotion and international chambers of commerce, provide invaluable support and a host of other important services.
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Long – established and newly emerging industries
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With strong economic development and strong support industries, the country's industrial production has grown and diversified rapidly both in the long –established and newly emerging industries. The government has emphasized 5 sectors: automotive, electronics and ICT, fashion, food and value-added services including entertainment, healthcare and tourism.
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Friendly and rich culture
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Thailand has gained a well-known reputation throughout the world as a basket of diverse cultures- a veritable mixture of the exotic flavors of the East complemented with the friendliness of its people. With such a rich culture, it is easy for Thailand to welcome the foreigner investor to its shores.
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Education and healthcare services
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Thailand 's educational standards are accepted by many international examining bodies, while its universities are outstanding in many fields. A great number of international schools and colleges offer world-class education. In terms of healthcare, the country has developed a good reputation globally, due to its internationally qualified doctors and medical staff, and modern facilities and equipment.
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