In Thailand’s still-shaky political and economic environment, company decisions are rarely independent of outside infl uences. Never underestimate the role of government offi cials, bureaucrats, and the military. All of them wield considerable infl uence across many industries. A number of criminal groups exist as well, many of which are led by high-ranking army offi cers. Doing business in the country can become extremely diffi cult and very unpleasant without the support of the ‘powers-to-be.’ It is important to come prepared to deal with these outside forces.