Thailand Probes 11,000 Suspected Nominee Firms in Land Scandal Worth 80 Billion Baht

Thailand –

Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwannachawi has revealed alarming figures in the government’s ongoing investigation into nominee companies allegedly holding land on behalf of foreign investors. At a joint meeting between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Justice, officials reported that more than 11,000 companies are under suspicion, with potential damages now estimated at 85 billion baht.

According to Polpree, investigations have already confirmed that 2,200 companies are illegally controlled by foreign shareholders who hold majority stakes, in violation of Thai law. The remaining 11,000 companies are being scrutinized for irregularities such as sudden changes in shareholder structures or suspicious financial accounts. The estimated value of land tied to these firms has surged from 65 billion baht two weeks ago to 85 billion baht today.

The findings will be presented to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, while the Department of Lands has been tasked with accelerating investigations and enforcing compulsory divestment of illegally held properties. Multiple agencies, including the police, the Department of Business Development, and the Department of Provincial Administration, are coordinating to determine which companies are legitimate and which are nominees. The government has set a firm deadline: all investigations must be concluded by the end of September.

Polpree explained that land ownership violations do not automatically trigger deportation under Thailand’s new expulsion law signed by Prime Minister Anutin. Deportation will only apply in cases where foreigners are found guilty of criminal activity or court rulings

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.