Starting or growing a business in Thailand is exciting, but it often comes with challenges such as complex regulations, language barriers, cultural differences, and the need to build a reliable local network. Fortunately, several business networks can help French (or foreign) entrepreneurs thrive in the Thai market.
These French-Thai or international business networks provide privileged access to local contacts, trustworthy information, and real development opportunities. Among the most relevant: the Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce (FTCC), French Tech Bangkok, and international chambers such as the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham Thailand) and the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT).
Here’s how to join them, and more importantly, how to make the most of them.
1. FTCC – Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce
The Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce (FTCC) is the leading French business organization in Thailand, affiliated with the CCI France International network. With over 50 years of experience, the FTCC supports entrepreneurs and companies of all sizes—from startups to major international groups.
Its network includes more than 280 member companies, and the Chamber organizes over 80 events per year, including business forums, committee meetings, and high-profile networking receptions.
Key Benefits:
- Market entry support: tailored assistance for company registration, HR, office setup, and business development.
- Custom business services: market studies, lead generation, and part-time commercial support to help you identify and secure new opportunities.
- Sector-specific working committees (HR, industry, luxury, digital…) for knowledge-sharing and collaboration within your field.
- Business Center (LeBooster): access to professional office space and on-site support within the FTCC premises.
- Extended network: through strong ties with the Federation of Thai Industries, the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT), and the CCI France International global network (119 chambers, 94 countries).
- 4,500+ contact database and exclusive access to a member directory, job boards, business opportunities, and regular legal or economic updates.
How to Join:
Membership starts at approximately THB 15,500 per year for small businesses. You can apply online via the FTCC website. Members also gain access to CCIFI Connect, a mobile app that connects you to over 34,000 French-speaking business professionals worldwide.
2. French Tech Bangkok
Launched in 2014, French Tech Bangkok is the official local community for French and international professionals working in tech, startups, and innovation in Thailand. Part of the global La French Tech movement, initiated by the French government, it aims to connect and promote French tech talent and know-how abroad.
Since 2019, French Tech Bangkok has been officially recognized as a “French Tech Community”, joining a worldwide network of local hubs supporting entrepreneurs.
Driven by a volunteer-based team, the community is open to everyone: French, Thai, or of any nationality, and encourages collaboration between the French and Thai tech ecosystems.
Key Benefits:
- Monthly English-speaking events: meetups, pitch nights, panels, and networking sessions.
- Access to a vibrant community of founders, freelancers, investors, and tech enthusiasts.
- Support for business setup and growth: practical advice, experience sharing, and connections.
- Visibility for startups through talks, content, and potential official French Tech certification.
- Opportunities to give back by mentoring, hosting events, or connecting peers.
How to Join:
Joining is completely free. Simply register for the newsletter and follow French Tech Bangkok on LinkedIn, Meetup, or Discord. Whether you’re an individual, a startup looking for visibility, or a potential business partner, you’re welcome to attend events or contact the team directly.
3. AmCham Thailand – American Chamber of Commerce
Though not French-specific, AmCham Thailand is an extremely active international chamber. Many European and French business leaders are involved, making it a great platform for expanding your English-speaking professional network.
AmCham is particularly valued for its institutional connections, its sector-specific committees, and its regular involvement in policy advocacy with both Thai and U.S. government agencies.
Key Benefits:
- 200+ events per year, including luncheons, high-level forums, and relaxed networking gatherings.
- 24 active industry committees, covering manufacturing, education, technology, finance, sustainability, and more.
- Strong advocacy role, acting as a voice for foreign businesses on regulatory and trade issues.
- Access to timely market intelligence, via news briefings, white papers, and the Thai-American Business magazine.
- Marketing and CSR opportunities through AmCham’s Corporate Impact Awards and sponsorship packages.
How to Join:
Open to all international businesses, including French companies. You can apply online. Their well-maintained events calendar makes it easy to find relevant opportunities.
Standard corporate membership starts at THB 39,900/year with a one-time registration fee of THB 10,000. Larger companies can also join as Silver, Gold, or Platinum Tier Members with extended privileges and VIP access.
You can apply directly via the AmCham website, and browse their extensive events calendar to get involved immediately.
4. BCCT – British Chamber of Commerce Thailand
The BCCT is another well-established international chamber that has grown beyond its UK roots to include many European and French members.It’s known for its more relaxed and accessible style of networking. It is the oldest foreign chamber and the largest non-Asian foreign chamber in the country with over 600 member companies.
Key Benefits:
- Frequent B2B events, ranging from high-level conferences to relaxed social gatherings.
- Multi-chamber collaborations with FTCC, AmCham, and other foreign chambers, expanding your exposure.
- Webinars and workshops on practical business topics: taxation, legal updates, HR, compliance, and more.
- Direct support to help identify potential business partners within the BCCT network.
How to Join:
You can apply online, and flexible monthly or quarterly payment plans are available. Some events remain open to non-members, allowing newcomers to explore the community before joining.
How to Get the Most from These Networks?
Joining a business club is only valuable if you get involved actively. Here are some tips to truly benefit from your membership:
1. Show up consistently
Attend breakfast meetings, afterwork sessions, or sectoral panels. Face-to-face contact is still the most effective form of networking.
2. Offer value before asking
Share useful information, make introductions, or suggest resources. The goodwill you generate often turns into business later.
3. Perfect your elevator pitch
Be ready to explain who you are, what you offer, and what you’re looking for—in 30 seconds.
4. Follow up
Send a short LinkedIn message or email after meeting someone. Invite them for coffee. Stay connected!
5. Stay engaged over time
Networking is not about one event. Build long-term relationships by attending regularly and staying visible.
Joining a business network in Thailand isn’t just about gaining visibility—it’s a strategic decision. The FTCC and French Tech Bangkok provide strong support for French-speaking entrepreneurs, while AmCham and BCCT open doors to a broader international business community.
Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding your SME, or simply exploring the Thai market, these networks can save you months of trial and error, give you access to decision-makers, and help you scale your business faster and smarter.