Senate Deputy Warns of Crackdown on Foreign Nominee Businesses in Samui, Phangan, Phuket
Senate Deputy Warns of Crackdown on Foreign Nominee Businesses in Samui, Phangan, Phuket — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.
On April 26, Senate Deputy President Gen. Kriangkrai Srirak announced in Surat Thani that concerns over foreign nominee businesses and illegal construction in Samui, Phangan, and Phuket have prompted calls for urgent action. Residents reported worries about foreign nationals exploiting legal loopholes to control land and operate businesses through Thai proxies, with impacts on local communities and the economy.
Reports of Illegal Land Use and Foreign-Run Communities
Gen. Kriangkrai cited complaints of unlawful building, encroachment on public and forest land, and destruction of natural resources. He noted that gaps in law enforcement have allowed these issues to resurface after earlier interventions.
He highlighted reports of Israeli groups in Samui, Phangan, and Phuket acquiring property to run businesses serving their own nationals, establishing religious sites, and forming closed communities. These activities have affected both locals and other visitors.
Government Response and Enforcement Actions
The Senate will raise these concerns in parliament, seeking a comprehensive investigation and legal review. Gen. Kriangkrai proposed forming a committee to study the legal and economic impacts.
A special task force in Surat Thani was previously set up to address illegal foreign business activity, leading to 620 cases prosecuted between October 2025 and April 2026. Of these, 18 cases involved hotels, villas, and tourism, and authorities revoked seven visas.
Source: https://www.dailynews.co.th/news/5813497/
