Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Interior are taking decisive steps to crack down on "nominee" activities, focusing their inspections on 140,000 high-risk companies in Thailand. They are updating information systems and enhancing measures to address loopholes that allow nominees to operate in business and land ownership. A significant aspect of this initiative is the swift action concerning seven companies in Nakhon Phanom that falsely registered the addresses of local residents, with directors required to report within 15 days.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director-General of the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, emphasized the ministry's ongoing efforts to tackle "nominee" arrangements. Partnering with agencies like the Department of Land and the Department of Provincial Administration, the Ministry is sharing crucial data to update the legal entities' database. This initiative aims to prevent foreigners from exploiting Thai nationals to hold shares, own land, or engage in restricted businesses in Thailand.
The Ministry stresses that the crackdown is not aimed at deterring legitimate foreign investments but rather ensuring fairness for legal business operations. New preventive measures have been in place since August 1, 2026, including stricter documentation requirements, which have significantly reduced the registration of potentially high-risk foreign-owned companies. The focus also includes resolving longstanding issues with existing entities, particularly those with land and condominium holdings in key economic and tourist areas.
On September 4, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, and Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Polpeerap Suwannachavi, agreed on upgrading the crackdown on nominee ownership. Key departments have collaborated to enhance information checks and implement stricter measures to prevent nominee companies from acquiring land. Recent updates revealed that of the 144,706 real estate and condominium ownership records examined, 125,622 fall under the Department of Business Development's supervision.
Clarifying the ministerial regulation concerning service businesses not requiring permits for foreign operation, the Ministry of Commerce dispelled rumors and misinformation. The regulation outlines eight service businesses exempt from permits, categorized into three groups: those under specific laws, intra-group services, and niche services. This regulatory clarification aims to ensure transparency and address concerns about economic sovereignty.
In response to the misuse of addresses in Nakhon Phanom by seven companies, investigations confirmed the misappropriation of residential addresses without consent. The Department of Business Development is coordinating with local immigration offices to verify foreign directors' travel records. Legal action is anticipated if false information is confirmed, with potential charges for forgery and false statements.
The public is encouraged to check if their address is used for company registration via the Department of Business Development's website. This proactive measure supports transparency and accountability in business operations across Thailand.