Koh phangan: The Prime Minister inspected illegal pool villas on Koh Phangan, reportedly owned by an Israeli national using a Thai nominee. During the inspection, the Prime Minister clarified concerns regarding the liberalization of business operations in Thailand, emphasizing the importance of reducing procedural duplication.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister addressed a misunderstanding regarding business permits. He explained that while foreigners must obtain permits from relevant agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Town Planning, the Department of Industrial Works, and the Ministry of Interior, they do not need to apply for permits from the Ministry of Commerce. The Prime Minister attributed this procedural clarification to an initiative by the Minister of Commerce aimed at streamlining processes.
The Prime Minister also discussed the controversial use of nominees on Koh Phangan. He noted the importance of not conflating nominee issues with land encroachment, which are being managed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Department of Land. The inspection revealed concerns about companies being created and sold, with foreign entities effectively maintaining ownership, which undermines Thai legal intentions regarding business and land ownership.
The Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of ensuring Thai nationals hold majority ownership in companies, especially those owning land. He expressed concerns about foreign entities potentially laundering money through such businesses, thus gaining control. Legal action against such practices is deemed necessary to uphold the spirit of Thai law.
During his visit, the Prime Minister engaged with local villagers, urging them to maintain the cleanliness of the beach and ocean. He was warmly welcomed by the community, who invited him to participate in local activities such as squid fishing, although he had to decline due to prior commitments. The interaction concluded with a light-hearted exchange in the Southern Thai dialect about the local seafood.