Preface
With the rapid development of the digital economy, e-invoice systems have become a core component of tax modernization and digital transformation efforts in countries worldwide. As a key economy in Southeast Asia, Thailand is actively promoting the construction and application of e-invoice systems to provide businesses with more efficient and transparent tax management methods. This report aims to outline the current status, legal and regulatory framework, and operational characteristics of Thailand’s electronic invoice market, serving as a reference for partners interested in entering this market.
Current Development of E-Invoicing in Thailand
Thailand’s e-invoice system primarily includes two types: the E-Tax Invoice & e-Receipt system and the E-Tax Invoice by Email system. Among these, the E-Tax Invoice & e-Receipt is the main form of electronic tax document recognized by the Thai Revenue Department.
An E-Tax Invoice is a fully digital tax invoice with the same legal validity as a paper invoice. Its digital format facilitates storage, retrieval, and data exchange. An e-Receipt serves as an electronic receipt suitable for transactions that do not require detailed tax information. The E-Tax Invoice by Email system enables rapid invoice delivery via email, enhancing operational convenience for businesses. Together, these three systems form a multi-tiered electronic invoicing framework that caters to businesses of different sizes and operational needs.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The implementation of Thailand’s e-invoice system is based on a series of laws and regulations, mainly including:
Ministerial Regulation No. 384 (B.E. 2565): Issued under the provisions of the Revenue Code regarding electronic document evidence, this forms the core legal basis for the e-invoice system.
Electronic Transactions Act B.E. 2544 (2001) and its amendments: Establishes the basic principles for electronic transactions, providing legal assurance for the validity of electronic invoices.
ICT Standard Recommendation No. 3-2560: Pertains to the electronic information exchange for trade in goods and services, specifying the technical standards and format requirements for electronic invoices.
These regulations collectively construct the legal and standard framework for electronic invoices, ensuring their full legal validity and compliance in Thailand.
Commercial Operational Characteristics of E-Invoice Services
Open Data Standards and Stringent Technical Requirements
Thailand employs a Real-time Reporting (RTR) model for its e-invoice system. Businesses must generate XML format files according to the e-Tax Invoice & e-Receipt system standards and submit them to the Thai Revenue Department. The system requires the use of robust digital signature technology to sign the XML files, ensuring their authenticity and integrity. The digital signature must be stored in a USB token or Hardware Security Module (HSM). The electronic certificates used must be issued by a Certification Authority (CA) recognized by Thailand’s National Root Certification Authority (NRCA) and the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), complying with international standards such as “WebTrust for CAs”.
Voluntary Adoption and Policy Incentives
Although Thailand has not yet mandated the use of electronic invoices, the government encourages voluntary adoption through various incentive policies, such as:
Easy E-Receipt 2.0 Program: From January 16 to February 28, 2025, consumers shopping at designated stores can enjoy tax deductions of up to 50,000 THB. This initiative aims to stimulate local consumption and promote the comprehensive digitalization of the tax system.
SME Digital Expenditure Tax Incentives: Eligible SMEs can claim a 200% tax deduction on their digital expenses, up to a cap of 300,000 THB. Applicable expenditures include:
Purchase or lease of software.
Purchase or lease of hardware and smart devices.
Subscription or usage fees for digital services via authorized platforms.
It is important to note that general computer equipment (e.g., laptops, desktops) is excluded. Relevant products or services must be registered with Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) to qualify for the above incentives. This policy remains in effect until December 31, 2027.
Market Outlook
According to market research data, Thailand’s electronic invoice market is experiencing rapid growth. The market size reached $99.86 million in 2024 and is projected to increase to $404 million by 2033. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) during the period 2025-2033 is forecasted to be 16.80%. This growth trend reflects Thailand’s continued investment in tax digitalization and the urgent demand from businesses for efficient and compliant solutions.
Conclusion
Driven by both policy support and technological advancements, Thailand’s electronic invoice market demonstrates strong development potential. For service providers planning to enter this market, a deep understanding of local regulations, technical standards, and incentive policies is crucial to seizing opportunities and achieving business expansion.
