New Era University

No. 9 Central Avenue Barangay New Era, Quezon City 1107

Activity 1: Country Profiling

Submitted By:
BAUTISTA, Joyce Ann
ERNACIO, Nathalie
GALERA, Gwyneth
MAXIMO, Ma. Cristine
NAVIDAD, Riannezel
PALAPO, Rashaine

3BSAIS-1

Submitted To:
Dr. Bernie E. Balmeo
Professor
 International Business Expansion:

Comprehensive Country Profiling

1. General Information:

Country Name: France

Geographical Location:

France is located in Western Europe. Its neighbors to the southwest are Spain and the small
country of Andorra, while it is bordered from the northeast by Belgium, Luxembourg, and
Germany, and to the east by Switzerland and Italy. The small city-state of Monaco is also a
neighbor of France

France is in the Central European Time (CET) zone during standard time (UTC+1) and Central
European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving time (UTC+2). The country observes
daylight saving time, usually from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

It's important to note that France spans multiple time zones due to its overseas territories, which
are located in different parts of the world.

Proximity to Key Markets:

European Union (EU): France is a member of the European Union, and its central location
within the EU provides easy access to other member states. This facilitates trade and economic
cooperation with neighboring countries.

United Kingdom: While the UK is no longer part of the EU, France remains a key trading
partner with its proximity across the English Channel. The Channel Tunnel, connecting France
and the UK, is an essential transportation link.

Germany: France shares a border with Germany, one of the largest economies in Europe. This
proximity supports strong economic ties and facilitates the movement of goods and services
between the two countries.

Mediterranean Markets: Southern France has access to the Mediterranean Sea, providing
trade opportunities with countries in the Mediterranean region, such as Spain, Italy, and others.

Population:

➢ According to the 2023 census report, the population of France is 68 million. Of this
number, 65 million live in mainland France, while the other 3 million live in France's
overseas territories, namely Martinique, Guadeloupe, La Réunion, Mayotte and French
Guiana.
 ➢ Mountainous regions like the Massif Central, southern Alps, Pyrenees, and Corsica, as
well as certain lowland rural areas, exhibit particularly low population densities.
➢ Regions such as Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Bourgogne–Franche-Comté, Centre–Val de Loire,
and Corsica have less than one-fifth of the national population despite covering about
one-third of the country.
➢ In contrast, Île-de-France (Paris region) and Hauts-de-France have nearly one-third of
the French population in less than one-tenth of the area.

Source: https://www.britannica.com/place/France/Population-distribution

2. Political Stability:

Government Structure

France is a republican State and a parliamentary democracy, often qualified as

semi-presidential. The Parliament is bicameral and is made up of the National
Assembly (Assemblée nationale) and the Senate (Sénat). The latter indirectly
represents the sub-national authorities' interests to the extent that the Senate is
indirectly elected by an electoral body comprising representatives of the Regions,
the Departments and the Communes. A “rationalised parliamentary regime"
(parlementarisme rationalisé) was established by the 1958 Constitution, in favour of
the Government. However, a constitutional reform occurred in 2008 in order to
rebalance the relationship between the Parliament and the Government, in favour
of the former. France is characterised by a flexible separation of powers, i.e. the
Government is politically responsible before the Parliament but can, in turn, dissolve
the National Assembly.

Source: https://portal.cor.europa.eu/divisionpowers/Pages/France-
Introduction.aspx#:~:text=France%20is%20a%20republican%20State,and%20the
%20Senate%20(S%C3%A9nat).

Government Incentives Support

a. Tax Incentives: France offers a range of tax incentives to businesses, including research tax
credits, tax exemptions for new businesses, and tax credits for investments in certain regions.

b. Investment Promotion Agencies: Business France is a government agency that promotes

foreign investment in France.

c. Trade Agreements: France is a member of the European Union and benefits from the EU's
trade agreements with other countries.

Stability of Government: France has a long history of political stability, but there have been
occasional protests and strikes in recent years.

Political Risks: The main political risks in France are related to social unrest and terrorism.

Corruption Index: France ranks 23rd out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2021
Corruption Perceptions Index
 3. Economic Indicators:

GDP: $2.7 trillion

GDP Growth Rate: 5.5%.

Inflation Rate: 1.9%

Unemployment Rate: 8.6%

Ease of Doing Business Index: France is ranked 32 among 190 economies.

Currency Stability: The Euro is a stable currency against major currencies.

4. Cultural and Social Factors:

Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity: France is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage. It is
important to understand and respect local customs and traditions.

Social Values and Norms: French society values equality, freedom, and individualism. It is
important to be aware of these values when doing business in France.

Education Levels: France has a highly educated population, with a literacy rate of 99%

Healthcare Systems: France has a high-quality healthcare system that is accessible to all citizens

Social Trends: France is experiencing an aging population and a growing interest in environmental
sustainability

5. Technological Advances:

Level of Technology Adoption: France is one of the most technologically advanced countries in
Europe. According to the European Commission, 85% of French households have access to the
internet, and 70% of the population uses a smartphone.

Innovation Ecosystem: France has a thriving innovation ecosystem, with many research
institutions, startups, and innovation hubs. The country is home to several world-class universities,
including the Sorbonne and École Polytechnique, which are renowned for their research in science
and technology.

Digital Infrastructure: France has a well-developed digital infrastructure, with high-speed internet
and mobile networks available throughout the country. The government has invested heavily in
building out the country's digital infrastructure, and France is home to several data centers that
serve as hubs for cloud computing and other digital services
 Access to Emerging Technologies: France is at the forefront of emerging technologies, with a
strong focus on artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. The country has
several research institutions and startups that are working on cutting-edge technologies, and the
French government has launched several initiatives to support the development of these
technologies.

6. Environmental Factors:

Environmental Regulations: France has strict environmental regulations in place to protect the
environment and promote sustainability

Renewable Energy Availability: France is committed to increasing its use of renewable energy
sources, such as wind and solar power

Climate and Natural Disaster Risks: France is vulnerable to natural disasters such as floods,
landslides, and forest fires. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of
these events

Sustainability Initiatives: France has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, including

the Paris Agreement on climate change and the European Union's Circular Economy Action Plan

7. Legal and Regulatory Environment:

Legal System: France has a civil law legal system.

Business Registration Process: The process for registering a business in France can be
complex and time-consuming

Taxation Policies: Corporate tax rates in France are among the highest in the world, but the
government offers a range of tax incentives to businesses

Labor Laws: France has strict labor laws that govern employment relationships

Intellectual Property Protection: France has strong laws protecting patents, trademarks, and
other forms of intellectual property

Trade Regulations: France is a member of the European Union and benefits from the EU's free
trade agreements with other countries

8. Market Analysis:

Target Market Demographics: The French population is estimated to be around 67 million people,
with a median age of 42.3 years. The gender distribution is almost equal, with 51.2% of the
population being female and 48.8% male. The average monthly income is around €2,250.
 Competitive Landscape: The French retail market is highly competitive, with major players such
as Carrefour, Auchan, and Casino Group. The market share of Carrefour, the largest retailer in
France, is around 20%

Consumer Behavior: French consumers are known for their preference for high-quality products.
They are also increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases and are
willing to pay more for eco-friendly products

Market Trends: The French retail market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2021 to
2026. The growth is attributed to the increasing demand for online shopping and the rising
popularity of sustainable products.

9. Infrastructure:

Transportation Networks: France has a well-developed transportation network, with 11,000 km of

high-speed rail lines and 1,028,446 km of paved roads. The country has 464 airports, including 14
international airports

Communication Facilities: France has a reliable communication infrastructure, with 99% of the
population having access to the internet. The country has a well-developed mobile network, with
99% of the population having access to mobile phones .

Energy Availability and Cost: France is one of the largest producers of nuclear energy in the
world, with 56 nuclear reactors. The country has a well-developed energy infrastructure, with 99%
of the population having access to electricity. The average cost of electricity in France is around
€0.18 per kWh.

Technology Infrastructure: France has a well-developed technology infrastructure, with a high

level of digitalization. The country has a large pool of skilled IT professionals and is home to several
technology companies such as Dassault Systemes, Capgemini, and Atos.

10. Risk Assessment:

Currency Exchange Risks: The Euro is the official currency of France. The exchange rate of the
Euro is subject to fluctuations in the foreign exchange market, which can impact the profitability of
businesses that import or export goods and services

Economic Volatility: The French economy is the seventh-largest in the world and is considered to
be relatively stable. However, the country has experienced some economic volatility in recent years
due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability

Security and Safety Concerns: France has a moderate risk of terrorism and crime. Businesses
operating in the country should take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their employees
and assets
 Natural Disaster Risks: France is prone to natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and forest
fires. Businesses should take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with these
disasters.

11. Human Resources:

Availability of Skilled Labor: France has a highly skilled workforce, with a high level of education
and training. The country has a large pool of skilled professionals in various fields such as
engineering, technology, and finance.

Labor Costs: The labor costs in France are relatively high compared to other countries. The
minimum wage in France is around €10.25 per hour.

Workforce Education Levels: The education system in France is highly developed, with a focus
on providing quality education to its citizens. The country has a high literacy rate of around 99%.

Language Proficiency: French is the official language of France. However, English is widely
spoken and understood in the country, especially in the business community.

12. Cost of Living:

Housing Costs: The cost of housing in France varies depending on the location and type of
property. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Paris is around €1,200.
Outside of Paris, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around €600

Utilities and Services: The cost of utilities and services in France is relatively high. The average
monthly cost of electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection for a one-bedroom apartment is
around €150

Cost of Goods and Services: The overall cost of living in France is relatively high compared to
other countries. The cost of groceries, transportation, and entertainment is also relatively high

13. Conclusion and Recommendation:

Summary of Findings: France has a highly developed economy with a skilled workforce and a
well-developed infrastructure. However, the cost of living in the country is relatively high, which can
impact the profitability of businesses operating in the country.

Recommendation for Business Expansion: France is a good market for businesses that offer
high-quality products and services. However, businesses should be prepared to deal with the high
cost of living in the country. It is also important to conduct thorough market research and identify the
target market before expanding the business in France.
 1. General Information:

Country Name: Canada

Geographical Location:

Canada is located on the North American continent. Canada is bordered by the Arctic Ocean
and the Hudson Bay to the north, the Labrador Sea and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the
Pacific Ocean to the west, and the United States to the west and south.

Canada uses six primary time zones. From east to west, they are the Newfoundland Time Zone,
Atlantic Time Zone, Eastern Time Zone, Central Time Zone, Mountain Time Zone, and Pacific
Time Zone.

In most of Canada, Daylight Saving Time begins at 2:00 a.m. local time on the second Sunday
in March. On the first Sunday in November areas on Daylight Saving Time return to Standard
Time at 2:00 a.m. During Daylight Saving Time turn your clocks ahead one hour.

Proximity to Key Markets:

Natural Resources

Energy: Canada is a major exporter of energy resources, particularly oil and natural gas.
Alberta's oil sands and energy production in other provinces contribute significantly to the
economy.

Mining: Canada is rich in mineral resources, including metals like gold, copper, and nickel.
Mining operations are prominent in provinces such as Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.

Agriculture and Agri-Food: Canada is a major exporter of agricultural products and processed
foods. Key agricultural exports include wheat, canola, barley, beef, pork, and dairy products.

Manufacturing: Manufacturing is a key sector in Canada, with industries such as automotive,

aerospace, and machinery playing a crucial role. Ontario, particularly the Greater Toronto Area,
is a hub for automotive manufacturing.

Technology and Innovation: The technology sector, including software development, artificial
intelligence, and clean technology, is a growing market in Canada. Cities like Toronto,
Vancouver, and Montreal are emerging as tech hubs.

Financial Services: Canada has a well-developed financial services sector, with major banks
and financial institutions headquartered in cities like Toronto is considered the financial capital
of Canada.

Population:
 ➢ The current population of Canada is 38,963,487 as of Monday, January 22, 2024, based
on Worldometer elaboration of the latest United Nations data
➢ Alberta saw the highest growth rate of all provinces and territories in 2022/2023 at 4.0%.
Meanwhile, every single province from coast to coast experienced their fastest annual
pace of growth since at least 2000/2001. All three territories also saw positive population
growth.
➢ The median age in Canada is 40.6 years.
➢ 81.4 % of the population is urban (31,563,358 people in 2023)

Source: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/91-215-x/91-215-x2023001-eng.htm

2. Political Stability:

Government Structure

Canada is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy, founded on

the rule of law and respect for rights and freedoms. The government acts in the
name of the Crown but derives its authority from the Canadian people.

Canada’s parliamentary system stems from the British, or “Westminster”, tradition.

Parliament consists of the Crown, the Senate, and the House of Commons, and laws
are enacted once they are agreed to by all three parts. Since Canada is a federal
state, responsibility for lawmaking is shared among one federal, ten provincial and
three territorial governments. The judiciary is responsible for the interpretation and
application of the law and the Constitution and for giving impartial judgments.

Source:
https://www.ourcommons.ca/procedure/our-procedure/parliamentaryFramework/
c_g_parliamentaryframework-e.html#:~:text=Canada%20is%20a%20constitutional
%20monarchy,or%20%E2%80%9CWestminster%E2%80%9D%2C%20tradition.

Government Incentives Support

a. Tax Incentives: Canada offers a range of tax incentives to businesses, including tax credits
for research and development, tax exemptions for new businesses, and tax credits for
investments in certain regions.

b. Investment Promotion Agencies: Invest in Canada is a government agency that promotes

foreign investment in Canada.

c. Trade Agreements: Canada has free trade agreements with many countries, including the
United States, Mexico, and the European Union.

Stability of Government: Canada has a long history of political stability.

Political Risks: The main political risks in Canada are related to regional tensions and indigenous
rights.

Corruption Index: Canada ranks 9th out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2021
Corruption Perceptions Index
3. Economic Indicators:

GDP: $1.8 trillion

GDP Growth Rate: 5.8%.

Inflation Rate: 3.7%

Unemployment Rate: 6.7%

Ease of Doing Business Index: 23

Currency Stability: The Canadian Dollar is a stable currency against major currencies.

4. Cultural and Social Factors:

Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity: Canada is a diverse country with a multicultural society. It is
important to understand and respect local customs and traditions.

Social Values and Norms: Canadian society values equality, diversity, and inclusivity. It is
important to be aware of these values when doing business in Canada.

Education Levels: Canada has a highly educated population, with a literacy rate of 99%

Healthcare Systems: Canada has a high-quality healthcare system that is accessible to all
citizens

Social Trends: Canada is experiencing an aging population and a growing interest in

environmental sustainability

5. Technological Advances:

Level of Technology Adoption: Canada is a highly connected country, with 91% of households
having access to the internet and 76% of the population using a smartphone.

Innovation Ecosystem: Canada has a thriving innovation ecosystem, with many research
institutions, startups, and innovation hubs. The country is home to several world-class universities,
including the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia, which are renowned for
their research in science and technology.

Digital Infrastructure: Canada has a well-developed digital infrastructure, with high-speed internet
and mobile networks available throughout the country. The government has invested heavily in
building out the country's digital infrastructure, and Canada is home to several data centers that
serve as hubs for cloud computing and other digital services.
 Access to Emerging Technologies: Canada is at the forefront of emerging technologies, with a
strong focus on artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. The country has
several research institutions and startups that are working on cutting-edge technologies, and the
Canadian government has launched several initiatives to support the development of these
technologies.

6. Environmental Factors:

Environmental Regulations: Canada has strict environmental regulations in place to protect the
environment and promote sustainability

Renewable Energy Availability: Canada is committed to increasing its use of renewable energy
sources, such as wind and solar power

Climate and Natural Disaster Risks: Canada is vulnerable to natural disasters such as floods,
wildfires, and earthquakes. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of
these events

Sustainability Initiatives: Canada has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, including

the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the Zero Plastic Waste
Initiative

7. Legal and Regulatory Environment:

Legal System: Canada has a common law legal system.

Business Registration Process: The process for registering a business in Canada is relatively
straightforward and can be completed online

Taxation Policies: Corporate tax rates in Canada are competitive, and the government offers a
range of tax incentives to businesses

Labor Laws: Canada has strict labor laws that govern employment relationships

Intellectual Property Protection: Canada has strong laws protecting patents, trademarks, and
other forms of intellectual property

Trade Regulations: Canada has free trade agreements with many countries, including the United
States, Mexico, and the European Union

8. Market Analysis:

Target Market Demographics: The Canadian population is estimated to be around 38 million

people, with a median age of 41.4 years. The gender distribution is almost equal, with 50.4% of the
population being female and 49.6% male. The average monthly income is around CAD 3,000.
 Competitive Landscape: The Canadian retail market is highly competitive, with major players such
as Walmart, Costco, and Loblaw Companies. The market share of Walmart, the largest retailer in
Canada, is around 25%.

Consumer Behavior: Canadian consumers are known for their preference for high-quality
products. They are also increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases
and are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products.

Market Trends: The Canadian retail market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.2% from 2021 to
2026. The growth is attributed to the increasing demand for online shopping and the rising
popularity of sustainable products.

9. Infrastructure:

Transportation Networks: Canada has a well-developed transportation network, with 45,000 km

of highways and 12,500 km of railways. The country has 1,467 airports, including 26 international
airports.

Communication Facilities: Canada has a reliable communication infrastructure, with 98% of the
population having access to the Internet. The country has a well-developed mobile network, with
99% of the population having access to mobile phones .

Energy Availability and Cost: Canada is one of the largest producers of hydroelectric power in
the world. The country has a well-developed energy infrastructure, with 100% of the population
having access to electricity. The average cost of electricity in Canada is around CAD 0.15 per kWh.

Technology Infrastructure: Canada has a well-developed technology infrastructure, with a high

level of digitalization. The country has a large pool of skilled IT professionals and is home to several
technology companies such as Shopify, OpenText, and BlackBerry.

10. Risk Assessment:

Currency Exchange Risks: The Canadian dollar is the official currency of Canada. The exchange
rate of the Canadian dollar is subject to fluctuations in the foreign exchange market, which can
impact the profitability of businesses that import or export goods and services.

Economic Volatility: The Canadian economy is the tenth-largest in the world and is considered to
be relatively stable. However, the country has experienced some economic volatility in recent years
due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability.

Security and Safety Concerns: Canada is considered to be a safe country with low levels of crime
and terrorism. However, businesses operating in the country should take necessary precautions to
ensure the safety of their employees and assets.

Natural Disaster Risks: Canada is prone to natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, and
earthquakes. Businesses should take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with
these disasters.
11. Human Resources:

Availability of Skilled Labor: Canada has a highly skilled workforce, with a high level of education
and training. The country has a large pool of skilled professionals in various fields such as
engineering, technology, and finance.

Labor Costs: The labor costs in Canada are relatively high compared to other countries. The
minimum wage in Canada varies by province and ranges from CAD 12.50 to CAD 16.00 per hour.

Workforce Education Levels: The education system in Canada is highly developed, with a focus
on providing quality education to its citizens. The country has a high literacy rate of around 99% .

Language Proficiency: English and French are the official languages of Canada. However,
English is the most commonly spoken language in the country, especially in the business
community.

12. Cost of Living:

Housing Costs: The cost of housing in Canada varies depending on the location and type of
property. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is around CAD 2,200.
Outside of Toronto, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around CAD 1,200.

Utilities and Services: The cost of utilities and services in Canada is relatively high. The average
monthly cost of electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection for a one-bedroom apartment is
around CAD 150.

Cost of Goods and Services: The overall cost of living in Canada is relatively high compared to
other countries. The cost of groceries, transportation, and entertainment is also relatively high.

13. Conclusion and Recommendation:

Summary of Findings: Canada has a stable economy with a skilled workforce and well-developed
infrastructure. However, the cost of living in the country is relatively high, which can impact the
profitability of businesses operating in the country.

Recommendation for Business Expansion: Canada is a good market for businesses that offer high-
quality products and services. However, businesses should be prepared to deal with the high cost of
living in the country. It is also important to conduct thorough market research and identify the target
market before expanding the business in Canada.
 1. General Information:

Country Name: Thailand

Geographical Location: Thailand is located in the center of mainland Southeast Asia. It is wholly
within the tropics and encompasses diverse ecosystems. The capital of Thailand is Bangkok, and the
city’s metropolitan area is the preeminent urban center in the country. Southeast Asia, bordering the
Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Myanmar (Burma).

Proximity to Key Markets:

ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations): Thailand is a member of ASEAN, a regional

intergovernmental organization comprising ten member states in Southeast Asia. This provides
Thailand with close proximity to major markets such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and
others.

China: Thailand shares a border with China in the northern region. This proximity enhances trade and
economic relations between the two countries.

India: While Thailand and India are not direct neighbors, they are part of the larger South and
Southeast Asian region. Thailand's location allows for trade and economic cooperation with India, and
both countries are part of regional forums like the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical
and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

Japan and South Korea: Thailand's geographical location in Asia positions it as a key partner for trade
and investment with advanced economies like Japan and South Korea. The country's strategic location
facilitates economic ties and business collaborations.

Australia and New Zealand: While Australia and New Zealand are located farther to the south,
Thailand's regional influence and connectivity make it a gateway for businesses looking to engage with
these countries and vice versa.

Population: As of January 2024, Thailand's population is estimated to be around 71.8 million, ranking
it 20th in the world.

Thailand's population is relatively young, with a median age of around 40.2 years. The 0-14 age group
makes up about 16.4% of the population, while the 65+ age group makes up about 10.9%.

2. Political Stability:

Government Structure: Constitutional monarchy.

Government Incentives Support

a. Tax Incentives: Thailand offers a range of tax incentives to businesses, including tax
exemptions for new businesses and tax holidays for certain industries.
 b. Investment Promotion Agencies: The Thailand Board of Investment is a government
agency that promotes foreign investment in Thailand.

c. Trade Agreements: Thailand has free trade agreements with many countries, including
China, Japan, and Australia.

Stability of Government: Thailand has experienced political instability in recent years, including
military coups and protests.

Political Risks: The main political risks in Thailand are related to political instability and military
intervention.

Corruption Index: Thailand ranks 104th out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2021
Corruption Perceptions Index.

3. Economic Indicators:

GDP: $543 billion

GDP Growth Rate: 4.5%

Inflation Rate: 0.8%

Unemployment Rate: 1.1%

Ease of Doing Business Index: 21

Currency Stability: The Thai Baht is a stable currency against major currencies.

4. Cultural and Social Factors:

Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity: Thailand is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage. It is
important to understand and respect local customs and traditions.

Social Values and Norms: Thai society values respect, hospitality, and family. It is important to be
aware of these values when doing business in Thailand.

Education Levels: Thailand has a literacy rate of 96%.

Healthcare Systems: Thailand has a high-quality healthcare system that is accessible to all citizens.

Social Trends: Thailand is experiencing an aging population and a growing interest in environmental
sustainability.

5. Technological Advances:

Level of Technology Adoption: Thailand is rapidly becoming a highly connected country, with 57% of
households having access to the internet and 47% of the population using a smartphone.
Innovation Ecosystem: Thailand has a growing innovation ecosystem, with several research
institutions, startups, and innovation hubs. The country is home to several universities, including
Chulalongkorn University and Mahidol University, which are renowned for their research in science and
technology.

Digital Infrastructure: Thailand has a developing digital infrastructure, with high-speed internet and
mobile networks available in urban areas. The government has launched several initiatives to improve
the country's digital infrastructure, including the Thailand 4.0 policy, which aims to transform the country
into a digital economy.

Access to Emerging Technologies: Thailand is working to develop its capabilities in emerging

technologies, with a focus on artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. The country
has several research institutions and startups that are working on cutting-edge technologies, and the
Thai government has launched several initiatives to support the development of these technologies.

6. Environmental Factors:

Environmental Regulations: Thailand has environmental regulations in place to protect the

environment and promote sustainability, but enforcement can be weak.

Renewable Energy Availability: Thailand is committed to increasing its use of renewable energy
sources, such as solar power.

Climate and Natural Disaster Risks: Thailand is vulnerable to natural disasters such as floods,
landslides, and droughts. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of these
events.

Sustainability Initiatives: Thailand has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, including

the Thailand 4.0 initiative and the Sustainable Development Goals.

7. Legal and Regulatory Environment:

Legal System: Thailand has a civil law legal system.

Business Registration Process: The process for registering a business in Thailand can be complex
and time-consuming.

Taxation Policies: Corporate tax rates in Thailand are relatively low, and the government offers a
range of tax incentives to businesses.

Labor Laws: Thailand has labor laws that govern employment relationships, but enforcement can be
weak.

Intellectual Property Protection: Thailand has laws protecting patents, trademarks, and other forms
of intellectual property, but enforcement can be weak.
Trade Regulations: Thailand has free trade agreements with many countries, including China, Japan,
and Australia.

8. Market Analysis:

Target Market Demographics: The Thai population is estimated to be around **69 million** people,
with a median age of **39.2 years**. The gender distribution is almost equal, with **50.4%** of the
population being female and **49.6%** male. The average monthly income is around **THB 15,000**.

Competitive Landscape: The retail market in Thailand is highly competitive, with major players such
as Central Group, The Mall Group, and Tesco Lotus. The market share of Central Group, the largest
retailer in Thailand, is around **30%**.

Consumer Behavior: Thai consumers are known for their preference for high-quality products. They
are also increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases and are willing to
pay more for eco-friendly products.

Market Trends: The retail market in Thailand is expected to grow at a CAGR of **3.9%** from 2021 to
2026. The growth is attributed to the increasing demand for online shopping and the rising popularity of
sustainable products.

9. Infrastructure:

Transportation Networks: Thailand has a well-developed transportation network, with **390,000 km**
of roads and **4,000 km** of railways. The country has **28 airports**, including **6 international
airports**.

Communication Facilities: Thailand has a reliable communication infrastructure, with **44%** of the
population having access to the Internet. The country has a well-developed mobile network, with
**100%** of the population having access to mobile phones.

Energy Availability and Cost: Thailand has a well-developed energy infrastructure, with **99%** of
the population having access to electricity. The average cost of electricity in Thailand is around **THB
3.5 per kWh**.

Technology Infrastructure: Thailand has a well-developed technology infrastructure, with a high level
of digitalization. The country has a large pool of skilled IT professionals and is home to several
technology companies such as Agoda, Lazada, and Omise.

10. Risk Assessment:

Currency Exchange Risks: Currency Exchange Risks: The official currency of Thailand is the Thai
Baht. The exchange rate of the Thai Baht is subject to fluctuations in the foreign exchange market,
which can impact the profitability of businesses that import or export goods and services .
Economic Volatility: The Thai economy is the second-largest in Southeast Asia and is considered to
be relatively stable. However, the country has experienced some economic volatility in recent years due
to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability.

Security and Safety Concerns: Thailand has a moderate risk of terrorism and crime. Businesses
operating in the country should take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their employees and
assets.

Natural Disaster Risks: Thailand is prone to natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and
earthquakes. Businesses should take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with these
disasters .

11. Human Resources:

Availability of Skilled Labor: Thailand has a skilled workforce, with a high level of education and
training. The country has a large pool of skilled professionals in various fields such as engineering,
technology, and finance .

Labor Costs: The labor costs in Thailand are relatively low compared to other countries. The minimum
wage in Thailand is around THB 313 per day.

Workforce Education Levels: The education system in Thailand is highly developed, with a focus on
providing quality education to its citizens. The country has a high literacy rate of around 96%.

Language Proficiency: Thai is the official language of Thailand. However, English is widely spoken
and understood in the country, especially in the business community.

12. Cost of Living:

Housing Costs: The cost of housing in Thailand varies depending on the location and type of property.
The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bangkok is around **THB 10,000**. Outside
of Bangkok, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around **THB 5,000**.

Utilities and Services: The cost of housing in Thailand varies depending on the location and type of
property. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bangkok is around **THB
10,000**. Outside of Bangkok, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around **THB
5,000**.

Cost of Goods and Services: The overall cost of living in Thailand is relatively low compared to other
countries. The cost of groceries, transportation, and entertainment is also relatively low.

13. Conclusion and Recommendation:

Summary of Findings: Thailand has a stable economy with a skilled workforce and a well-developed
infrastructure. The cost of living in the country is relatively low, which can be an advantage for
businesses operating in the country.
Recommendation for Business Expansion: Thailand is a good market for businesses that offer high-
quality products and services. The low cost of living in the country can be an advantage for businesses.
It is also important to conduct thorough market research and identify the target market before
expanding the business in Thailand.

Suggested Criteria for Determining the Best Opportunity

France Canada Thailand

1. Market Potential ✔ ✔
2. Regulatory Environment ✔ ✔
3. Cultural Fit ✔ ✔ ✔
4. Technological Infrastructure ✔ ✔
5. Economic Stability ✔
6. Environmental Factors ✔ ✔
7. Labor and Human Resources ✔ ✔
8. Cost Factors ✔
9. Government Incentives ✔ ✔
10. Risk Mitigation ✔
Total 8 7 4