Thailand: Adopted Trade Competition Bill including unilateral conduct regulation

On 24 March 2017, the Trade Competition Bill was adopted by the National Legislative Assembly. The Bill replaces the previous Trade Competition Act (B.E. 2542) and introduces exemptions for central, regional, or local administrations, state-owned enterprises, public organisations, farmer groups, cooperatives, and businesses regulated under other sectoral laws. In addition, the Bill prohibits business operators from using their dominant market position to fix prices, limit production, obstruct competition, or engage in unfair trade practices. Furthermore, damaged parties can file lawsuits for compensation within one year of knowing the cause of the damage. Violations of the Bill can result in criminal and administrative penalties, including imprisonment and fines.