Phuket—
Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwanchawee has intensified efforts to dismantle nominee business structures in Thailand, leading a high-profile inspection of hotels in Phuket suspected of foreign-controlled ownership. The campaign is part of the government’s stance that “Thailand’s land must belong to Thai people.”
During the inspection of hotels across three districts in Phuket, authorities discovered three establishments operating without valid hotel licenses. Some had construction permits for condominiums or residential buildings but were illegally converted into hotels. Investigators also flagged suspicious shareholder structures, raising concerns about nominee arrangements designed to circumvent laws restricting foreign ownership. Financial trails linked to these businesses are now under review.
Polpree revealed that during one inspection, individuals claiming to represent “powerful figures” attempted to intervene and halt enforcement. He stressed that officials cannot ignore violations witnessed firsthand, reiterating that lawful operators will be protected while offenders face prosecution without exception. “No influence should interfere with the enforcement of the law,” he declared.
Local officials acknowledged complaints from operators about lengthy licensing processes. The Phuket provincial administration has accelerated the review of pending applications, clearing a significant backlog. However, businesses that never applied for licenses remain subject to legal action.
The Interior Ministry has ordered coordinated action with the Royal Thai Police, Ministry of Commerce, Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Land Department, and Department of Provincial Administration. The joint task force will expand investigations into nominee networks, property holdings, and financial flows of foreign investors nationwide. In Phuket, scrutiny will also extend to cannabis shops and other enterprises suspected of violating Thai law.
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