I have helped girlfriend(s) to establish a small business. From my experience, most aren’t business savvy. Or, perhaps they are! If they can get the falang to buy the stock then they make a good profit when they sell it. Of course, farang now has to replace the stock!
Make a business plan. Identify all set up costs and all running costs. Do projections of expected revenue (worst case and best case). Assess the financial viability of the business and make sure your partner is fully aware.
When you give her the hard facts that the business is not viable, I would love to see her reaction!
1. You can only hold 49% ownership of the business.
2. You have to employ 4 Thais for every 1 farang.
3. Your partner must have a financial investment in the company, equivalent to the share he/she owns.
There are some exceptions such as industries promoted by BOI. Also, if your partner is your spouse the employment rules change (I believe but please check).
It really depends on the airline. If you don’t have one then they have the right to refuse boarding. I have been asked on my last three trips, different airlines each time.