Startup Act 2026: Thai Cabinet Approves Bill

The Thai Cabinet approved in principle the Startup Business Promotion Act draft, known as the Startup Act, on September 8, 2026. The move aims to reform fundraising and share management laws to better support modern startup business models, designating the National Innovation Agency (NIA) as the core organization for certification and support.

Following this approval, the Cabinet assigned the Office of the Council of State to review the legal draft, while the Department of Business Development must update the Civil and Commercial Code regarding private limited companies and other related laws before advancing the legislative process.

Under the proposed framework, eligible enterprises must be private limited companies operating for no more than 10 years, with a three-year average revenue not exceeding 300 million baht, no history of dividend payouts, and no controlling stakes held by other corporations. Registration under this act remains optional for founders.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Qualified companies can submit self-certification forms electronically to NIA to receive statutory rights and privileges for five years. Deep tech startups in agriculture or other specified fields may qualify for an extended period totaling up to 10 years.