Phuket groups organise ‘Take Back Our Country’ rally over foreign business concerns

The Phuket Land Protection Group and about 20 community networks organised a rally at Saphan Hin on 31 October, calling for stricter enforcement against suspected illegal foreign businesses and nominee companies.

The event, titled the “Take Back Our Country” rally, was scheduled to run from 4pm to 10pm. Organisers said its aims were to protect Thai sovereignty, support local businesses and seek comprehensive audits of suspected foreign businesses.

Political activist Sondhi Limthongkul was listed as the featured speaker. Organisers also prepared petitions for submission to the provincial governor, according to the report.

The rally follows concerns raised by local groups and small business owners about alleged unfair competition and the use of nominee companies to bypass regulations. Those allegations have not all been substantiated by provincial investigators.

Authorities recently examined several commercial properties, including Chabad House in Patong. Investigators identified building-use violations, including unauthorised rooftop structures and parking areas that had been converted improperly, but the investigation did not substantiate all of the broader financial allegations made by protest leaders.

Local police deployed officers to maintain order and manage traffic around the demonstration. The rally’s organisers called for a clear response from the national government on foreign ownership and business activity in Phuket.