Politics
Parliamentary Committee Investigates Foreign Land Ownership in Phuket
A House committee is probing the use of Thai nominees by foreign nationals to hold land and business interests in Phuket, identifying thousands of high-risk entities nationwide.
On August 6, 2026, the House Committee on Corruption Prevention and Suppression held a meeting to address concerns regarding foreign nationals using Thai citizens as nominees to hold land and operate businesses in Phuket. Committee Chairman Asapol Santraipop stated that the investigation follows a site visit to Phuket on June 26–27, where officials gathered information on potential threats to national security and the economy.
According to data presented during the meeting, authorities have identified 1,752 companies in Phuket with foreign shareholders. Furthermore, the Department of Lands has screened 203,000 legal entities nationwide, flagging 4,041 as high-risk. The committee invited representatives from the Department of Lands, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), the Department of Business Development, and the Central Investigation Bureau to discuss the enforcement of existing laws and potential official misconduct.
For residents and visitors, this investigation highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny regarding property and business ownership structures in popular tourist destinations. While the committee is currently reviewing the legality of these holdings and the conduct of relevant officials, it remains to be confirmed what specific enforcement actions or policy changes will be implemented as a result of these findings. The committee continues to study measures to prevent corruption and ensure that business registrations comply with Thai law.
Translated from Thai.
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