Thailand, and Phuket in particular, remains one of the most popular destinations for relocation and investment. Beyond its tropical lifestyle, the country offers favorable tax conditions, a growing international tourism market, and a thriving real estate sector.
In 2024, interest in businesses for sale in Thailand has grown sharply. Foreign investors are increasingly searching for hotels for sale and lease in Phuket, restaurants for sale, spa and massage parlours, and commercial properties in Phuket. This article explores the most sought-after businesses, highlighting both the opportunities and risks for small investors.
Thailand: A Nation of Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses
Thailand is one of Asia’s most entrepreneurial countries. In 2023, 85,300 new business registrations were recorded, the highest figure in a decade. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) drive the economy, contributing over 35 percent of GDP and representing 99.6 percent of all businesses nationwide.
These enterprises span across hospitality, wellness, retail, and tourism services, with Phuket standing out as a hotspot thanks to its strong international appeal and constant tourist inflow.
Why Phuket is the Heart of Commercial Opportunities
Phuket attracts millions of visitors annually, making it a magnet for business opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and real estate. Investors commonly explore hotels for sale or lease in Patong, Kata, Karon, and Kamala, areas known for high tourism traffic. Meanwhile, Phuket Town is gaining ground as a cultural and commercial hub, drawing entrepreneurs interested in retail, creative industries, and professional services.
Hotels and Guesthouses: The Most Researched Investments
Running a hotel or guesthouse for sale or lease in Phuket is often the dream of foreign investors relocating to Thailand. With tourism bouncing back strongly, occupancy rates are averaging 60 to 70 percent, making small boutique hotels particularly attractive.
Options vary from cozy guesthouses with in-house restaurants to large beachfront resorts. For newcomers, leasing remains an appealing way to test the market with lower upfront investment before committing to a purchase.
Rawai and Nai Harn: Hotspots for Digital Nomads and Muay Thai
Rawai and Nai Harn have rapidly evolved into vibrant hubs for digital nomads and fitness tourism. The global popularity of Muay Thai gyms in Phuket has driven demand for hotels, healthy restaurants, and spa and massage parlours around these training centers. This ecosystem has transformed the area into one of Phuket’s most dynamic markets in 2024-2025, attracting long-term visitors and small business investors alike.
Restaurants in Phuket: Riding the International Dining Boom
Owning a restaurant for sale in Phuket continues to be one of the most common business goals for expats. The island’s cosmopolitan nature makes it ideal for international cuisines, from Italian and Japanese restaurants to beach bars and cocktail lounges.
Buying an already established restaurant business provides faster returns, but competition is fierce. In 2024, Phuket’s dining scene is highly selective, and success favors those with proven experience, strong branding, and solid financial planning.
Spa and Massage Parlours: A Timeless Investment
The spa and massage parlour business in Phuket remains an evergreen investment. From traditional Thai massage shops to luxury spa and wellness centers, this sector thrives thanks to steady demand from both locals and tourists. Wellness is deeply tied to Thai culture, making this a safe long-term business model. Investors can enter at different levels—small massage parlours for quicker returns, or upscale resort spas for higher margins.
Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses: Small-Scale, High-Experience
For investors seeking manageable projects, boutique hotels and guesthouses for sale in Phuket are highly appealing. These properties often emphasize personalized experiences and direct guest interaction, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for experiential travel.
Franchises in Thailand: Safer Entry Points for Investors
The franchise market in Thailand is expanding quickly. International brands in food, beverage, coffee, and fitness are actively seeking local partners in Phuket. For those new to entrepreneurship, buying a franchise offers the advantages of a proven business model, established branding, and reduced risk compared to starting from scratch.
Business Openings, Closures, and Market Dynamics
Thailand’s business environment is fast-moving and highly competitive. In 2024, 87,596 new businesses were registered, setting a record. Yet, closures, especially in the manufacturing sector, underline the challenges of operating in this dynamic market.
Despite fluctuations, Phuket’s hospitality, wellness, and fitness industries remain strong pillars of growth, continually attracting both small and large investors.
Leasehold Market in Phuket: Pros and Cons
A common question for foreigners is whether to buy or lease a business in Thailand. Leasehold agreements are widespread for hotels, restaurants, and commercial properties in Phuket.
The advantage lies in lower initial investment, but investors must be aware that ownership rights remain with the Thai landlord. Lease contracts often start at 3 years, but can extend to 10 to 30 years with renewal clauses. Due diligence is essential to secure long-term stability.
Risks and Opportunities for Foreign Investors
While the opportunities are vast, investing in Thailand comes with regulatory and operational challenges. Foreigners need to comply with company ownership restrictions, business visa requirements, and work permits.
Working with specialized lawyers, accountants, and consultants is crucial before acquiring a business for sale in Phuket. Done correctly, however, the rewards are significant: steady tourist demand, an international community, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Relocating to Thailand offers much more than a lifestyle upgrade—it opens doors to real business opportunities. From hotels for sale and lease in Phuket to restaurants, spa and massage parlours, and commercial properties, the island is full of possibilities for both small investors and seasoned entrepreneurs.
With Thailand’s vibrant MSME sector, strong tourism recovery, and entrepreneurial spirit, 2024 is a year of both risks and rewards. Success depends on balancing passion with solid planning and entering Phuket not just as a paradise for living, but as a dynamic and competitive market for growth.
