Legal Measures for Hotel Business Operations in Thailand: A Case Study of Conducting Hotel Businesses

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine legal measures and mechanisms regarding hotel business operations, especially small to medium-sized hotel businesses in Thailand. This study employed a qualitative research technique, namely a document analysis. Data used in this study were derived from various sources including books, theses, academic and research articles, and electronic information related to licenses, permits, and legislation for hotel businesses in Thailand and other nations. The results of this study revealed that there were 3 major problems of Thai laws concerning hotel business operations. First, Thailand’s laws related to hotel businesses remain ununified and scattered. Second, there are a number of licenses and registrations that are required for starting and operating a hotel business in Thailand. Entrepreneurs in the hotel industry need to contact many public agencies to obtain these registrations, licenses, and permits. This can ultimately cause a delay in starting and operating a hotel business and an increase in the operating expenses. Finally, the current hotel licensing system severely restricts hotel entrepreneurs’ rights and freedom. Specifically, this system creates a burden for Thai hotel entrepreneurs, and cannot adapt to the changing world. The implications and recommendations of these findings are discussed.