Phuket investigates complaints over Israeli-run businesses
Provincial authorities are investigating reports that some businesses operated by Israelis refused to serve Thai customers and are checking for possible nominee arrangements.
Phuket authorities are investigating complaints that some businesses operated by Israelis refused to provide services to Thai customers, while also checking for possible illegal nominee arrangements.
Deputy governor Khetrath Chansilp said officials carried out inspections on Monday in Patong, in Kathu district. A tour company catering to Israeli customers and a clothing shop were among the businesses visited.
Officials from the provincial office of the Department of Employment and Kathu district administration took part in the inspections, which were part of intensified scrutiny of foreign-operated businesses across Thailand, Mr Khetrath said.
Authorities will also inspect shops that cater exclusively to Israeli customers, including businesses displaying advertising in Hebrew, he said. Business operators must not discriminate between Thai and foreign customers and must comply with Thai law, Mr Khetrath added.
Nominee arrangements
Mr Khetrath said Phuket was stepping up efforts to tackle foreign investors suspected of using Thai nominees to conceal ownership or control of businesses.
The campaign involves local administrative authorities, police, kamnan, village heads and other agencies, and covers sectors including car rentals, hotels and restaurants, he said.
Officials will conduct direct inspections and detailed checks of corporate documents, with legal action to follow when violations are identified, Mr Khetrath said. He added that enforcement in one area was intended to deter similar violations elsewhere.
Phuket has a large population of Thai and foreign residents and more than 1,000 companies with foreign shareholders.
