Hi Sunbelt,

Am thinking of starting a new F&B business in Bangkok...but not sure how much will is the estimated rental cost to open a 700 sq ft outlet space (with kitchen) in Central Bangkok, ideally in MBK or Siam Square?

Also, how much different is teh rental cost if I open the outlet outside Central Bangkok, in shopping malls like The Mall or Central or Nland Mark?

How much does it cost to employ Thai waiters/waitresses by the hour or monthly?

What other costs are involved if I am to import raw materials (eg. tea bags, powder, etc) from outside Thailand? Do I need to clear customs or obtain any licences? How long does this process usually take?

Thanks in advance if you can furnish me with estimated costs or have any established business ready for take-over...

...but not sure how much will is the estimated rental cost to open a 700 sq ft outlet space (with kitchen) in Central Bangkok, ideally in MBK or Siam Square

Forget about MBK. Its easier to get a date with a "10" Siam Square you would be looking at 120,000 Baht.

How much does it cost to employ Thai waiters/waitresses by the hour or monthly?

Hour is 23 Baht to 28 Baht for Fast Food. Monthly is 5,000- 6,000 Baht.

What other costs are involved if I am to import raw materials (eg. tea bags, powder, etc) from outside Thailand? Do I need to clear customs or obtain any licences? How long does this process usually take?

Looking at 30% import tax. You'll need a Import License.

have any established business ready for take-over...

 How bout 638 of them... that is our business! Bringing sellers who have human reasons to sell ( divorce, partnership dispute, relocation, retirement, tired) with  someone looking to accquire a business and who understands the benefit of doing so...mainly a much higher degree of success. Risk is still lurking but with existing businesses, certainly a much lower rate of failure.