The death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, on the throne for 70 years, has naturally come as a huge shock to the Thai people, even though many were prepared for it given the sovereign's frail health over the last decade. The fervour surrounding the royal figure has resulted in immense mourning, which could cause confusion for visitors to the kingdom.
In fact, the official private mourning period is 30 days from the death of the sovereign. This means that many places of entertainment have closed their doors - the government having indicated that any decision was up to the owners of the premises. However, hotels, restaurants and bars remain open, with only the more 'fun' attractions having been cancelled. In practical terms, many special events - concerts, festivals, celebrations - will therefore not be taking place or have been postponed until early 2017. " For example, we had to postpone the Art Gallery Night "or cancel a classical music concert "A counsellor at the French Embassy in Bangkok explained. The official mourning period in the administrations will last a year, until the cremation of the former king.
On the business side, however, nothing has changed. All planned events and meetings are taking place as usual. In the administration, however, some public investment projects could be delayed by a month or two, due to the official 30-day mourning period.
For the rest, everything is normal... or almost. On Wednesday, the Prime Minister opened the Bangkok Design and Creativity Fair, which brings together the cream of the country's young designers. " We can't close the country off to the rest of the world It's a great way to get to know Thailand," explains Thitiporn Manenate, Head of Communications at the Tourism Board of Thailand, who was present at the show. " We simply ask visitors to respect the mourners by showing sobriety, particularly in their clothing. ".
This would indeed be the main element of change at business meetings: it is recommended not to wear garish colours - black, white, grey, navy blue and beige are de rigueur. The Prime Minister of Thailand has clearly indicated that this is not an obligation for foreigners, but there have already been a few reports of acts of violence or disapproval by Thai ultra-nationalists towards certain people perceived as disrespectful of the national mourning. Incidents against foreigners remain isolated but they are possible, although the government has already indicated that it will arrest those perpetrating acts of violence. A word of condolence to your Thai interlocutors will therefore be well received.
