Thailand has developed an international reputation for high international standards of healthcare at affordable prices.

The Thai government has been promoting Thailand as the Asian medical hub, focusing on medical services, healthcare services, and Thai herbal products.  In 2004, the Ministry of Public Health embarked on a 5-year plan to meet these objectives, and in 2009, the Thai government still views the importance of Thailand’s continued development as the medical hub of Asia.  The Bangkok Post has reported that the Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai wants to revive the "medical hub" concept, and Thai political parties are discussing the promotion of Thailand as Asia’s medical hub as recently as this month (July 2009). 

Board of Investment (BOI) incentives include-:

• Non-tax incentives including facilitation of work permits and visas, and permission to bring in foreign experts and technicians

• Various corporate income tax and import duty exemptions to promote the medical supplies and medical equipment, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.  Promoted activities include the manufacture of medical supplies or medical equipment, scientific equipment, medicines and active ingredients for medicines.

Viable and growing sectors which provide business opportunities include:

Medical Tourism

Medical Equipment

The US Commercial Services and Austrade also cite opportunities in the following areas.

- Post-acute healthcare service, which involves providing healthcare and nursing services for patients at their homes

- Construction of new and replacement hospitals

- Implementation of hospital information system (HIS) in selected hospitals and clinics in improving healthcare delivery

- Diagnostic kits for tropical diseases 

- Multi-vitamins and supplements with key benefits related to bone and joint health or beauty