OCPB registration (Thailand)
Registering a direct selling business with Thailand's OCPB
An introduction for companies planning to run a direct selling or direct marketing business in Thailand: why registration with the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB, known in Thai as สคบ.) is required, who can apply and how the process generally works.
Why direct selling businesses in Thailand must register
This page applies to Thailand only. Direct selling and direct marketing in Thailand are governed by the Direct Sales and Direct Marketing Act B.E. 2545 (2002), as amended. Operators must register with the registrar, the OCPB, before starting business.
Under Thai law, "direct selling" means selling goods or services to consumers through independent distributors or agents, including multi-level marketing (MLM). "Direct marketing" means offering goods or services directly to consumers through media so that consumers order them. Each has its own registration criteria.
Registration lets the business operate lawfully, gives independent distributors and consumers confidence, and means the company appears in the list of registered operators that the OCPB publishes.
Basic criteria
What applicants should know
A summary of the general criteria. Always check the current details and figures in the OCPB's announcements before applying.
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Individual applicants (direct marketing) A valid Thai national ID card, Thai nationality, at least 18 years of age, and other conditions set by the OCPB.
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Juristic person applicants A partnership or company with paid-up registered capital at or above the legal minimum, and possibly a security deposit depending on the type of business.
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No previous revocation The applicant must not have had a direct selling or direct marketing registration revoked within the period set by law (five years before the application date).
Disqualifications for executives
The managing partner, managing director, manager or person responsible for the applicant's operations must not be disqualified, for example by being:
- Bankrupt
- Legally incompetent or quasi-incompetent
- Previously sentenced to imprisonment by a final judgment, except for offences committed through negligence or petty offences
- An executive of another partnership or company currently registered for direct selling or direct marketing
- A former executive of a partnership or company whose registration was revoked within five years before the application date
The general process
How long it takes depends on the completeness of your documents and the OCPB's review.
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Prepare the entity and documents
Company certificate, registered capital, executive details and product information.
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Prepare the compensation plan
A plan explaining how independent distributors' rewards are calculated.
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Submit and receive a reference number
Track the status using the submission and application numbers.
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Receive the registration number
Once approved, you receive a registration number and can begin operating.
How a direct selling system helps
Registration is the operating company's responsibility. A well-run direct selling system helps by giving the company verifiable records: independent distributor details, sales, and reward payments calculated in line with the plan that was submitted.
OMC can offer initial guidance and help prepare the system and compensation-plan side of things. Ask our team directly about the scope of what we can help with.
OCPB registration questions
What is the difference between direct selling and direct marketing?
Direct selling reaches consumers through independent distributors or agents. Direct marketing offers goods directly to consumers through media, and consumers place orders themselves.
Where can I check which companies are registered?
The OCPB publishes a list of registered operators, which you can check on the OCPB website.
What is the minimum registered capital?
The law sets a minimum paid-up capital depending on the type of entity and business, and it has been amended over time. Check the current figure with the OCPB before applying.
Does this apply to companies outside Thailand?
This guide covers Thai law only. If you sell in other countries, check the rules in each market with local advisers.
Read more
General information, not legal advice. Requirements may change. Please check with the OCPB or a legal adviser before taking action.
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