Thai prime minister to visit Koh Samui and Koh Phangan over illegal foreign business concerns

Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Anutin Charnvirakul is set to visit Koh Samui and Koh Phangan to oversee efforts to address issues related to foreign business operations in the region.

According to the source, the visit will focus on concerns about businesses allegedly operating illegally through nominee structures, including enterprises said to be run by foreigners from nationalities such as Israelis and Russians.

A key meeting is planned at the Koh Phangan District Community Hall, where Anutin will meet local officials and Thai business owners to review challenges linked to illegally run foreign-owned businesses.

The visit comes amid growing concern among residents and authorities about the impact of foreign investment on local economies, particularly in tourist destinations such as Koh Phangan. The government, according to the source, aims to balance welcoming international investment with protecting community interests.

The source said the engagement is part of a broader national agenda to strengthen regulatory oversight, support sustainable tourism, and maintain economic stability in Thailand’s island districts.

It also said Anutin on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, ordered authorities to tighten oversight and strictly enforce laws against inappropriate tourist behaviour, including incidents of public indecency, saying such actions harm the country’s reputation and cultural values.

Provincial Governor Chumphon Wannachatsiri has also announced urgent measures to address concerns over foreign nationals allegedly residing illegally and working long-term on Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao, following media reports involving Israeli and Russian citizens in particular.