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Thailand Considers Law Revisions to Attract Foreign Real Estate Investment Picture courtesy: Kapook Thailand is actively considering changes to its real estate laws to encourage foreign investment, as outlined by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343708-thailand-considers-law-revisions-to-attract-foreign-real-estate-investment/

Picture courtesy: Kapook Thailand is actively considering changes to its real estate laws to encourage foreign investment, as outlined by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. The potential amendments aim to revise the "rights over leasehold assets" laws, offering more attractive lease agreements that could bolster the nation's economy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to draw foreign investors, improving Thailand's economic growth, which has been sluggish and hampered by increasing household debt. The real estate industry is crucial to Thailand's economy, influencing various related sectors. As domestic purchasing power diminishes, the government led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, aims to adopt ideas from previous administrations to allow foreigners to invest in Thai real estate. Current Thai laws restrict foreign ownership of land, presenting a political challenge. Thaksin Shinawatra, a key figure in the governing party, previously suggested that land sold to foreigners should first transfer to state management under the Treasury Department. This proposal would let foreigners lease the land for up to 99 years, keeping land ownership with the state after lease expiry. Implementing such measures would require amendments to existing state land laws. To further entice foreign investment, there's a move to extend lease terms from the current maximum of 30 years to 99 years. This extension could make investments more appealing. In April 2023, the cabinet directed ministries to explore these longer lease terms, and by June, tasked the Interior Ministry with advancing these proposals. Thailand's 2019 Rights Over Leasehold Assets Act currently allows lease terms from 3 to 30 years. These rights enable the transfer and use of property as collateral, yet the law hasn't been fully utilised or integrated into the market as intended. Revised laws could better define and expand these leasehold rights, aligning them more closely with international standards and encouraging real estate investment. In comparison, countries like England, Wales, France, and Cambodia have their own special lease laws, allowing long-term leases and granting tenants greater rights. These models provide insights for Thailand as it seeks to modernise its approach to leasehold real estate, making it a more competitive and attractive market for international investors, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-16

Thailand Cracks Down on Foreigners Using Thai Nominees Image composite courtesy: MGR online Thailand is taking decisive action against foreign businesses using Thai nominees to conduct operations within the country. The Commerce Ministry has unveiled a new plan spearheaded by Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343707-thailand-cracks-down-on-foreigners-using-thai-nominees/

Image composite courtesy: MGR online Thailand is taking decisive action against foreign businesses using Thai nominees to conduct operations within the country. The Commerce Ministry has unveiled a new plan spearheaded by Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang. This initiative aims to tackle illegal business practices that undermine local economic interests. The Ministry's subcommittee on nominee business prevention and suppression held significant discussions on Wednesday, bringing together several agencies to brainstorm strategies for identifying and prosecuting companies engaged in these unlawful practices. Key representatives from several agencies attended, including the Department of Business Development (DBD), Department of Special Investigation, Central Investigation Bureau, Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo), Tourist Police Bureau, Immigration Office, Department of Employment, Department of Tourism, Department of Lands, and Revenue Department. Together, they crafted a comprehensive strategy, proposing short-, medium-, and long-term measures for the cabinet's approval. In the immediate term, existing laws will be utilised to scrutinise and take legal action against suspect businesses, explained Mr Napintorn. Moving forward, the DBD plans to build an analytical system to detect nominee use by examining unusual business behaviour. This medium-term solution aims for completion in six months, adding an extra layer of vigilance by practising stricter law enforcement. Looking to the future, the ministry is contemplating amendments to Amlo's laws, permitting the DBD to reject or cancel business registrations tied to money laundering risks. Proposed changes to the Foreign Business Act could increase penalties, hoping to deter nominee practices altogether. Driven by numerous complaints against foreign businesses flouting Thai laws, the DBD is expanding its investigations. Particular attention is on online platforms, warehousing, and logistics sectors. The penalties for nominees could include imprisonment and hefty fines. With this proactive stance, Mr Napintorn emphasised the government's determination to safeguard the Thai economy. He encouraged those involved in nominee practices to cease activities and cooperate with authorities, ensuring protection for compliant witnesses, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-16

Thailand Introduces QR Code System to Combat Tax Evasion on Cigarettes Picture courtesy: Thai Government The Excise Department of Thailand has launched the "QR Cigarette" system, a high-tech solution to track and trace cigarette products and combat tax evasion. Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Paopoom Rojanasakul unveiled the system on 15 November 2024 at the Tobacco Authority of Thailand in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343691-thailand-introduces-qr-code-system-to-combat-tax-evasion-on-cigarettes/

Picture courtesy: Thai Government The Excise Department of Thailand has launched the "QR Cigarette" system, a high-tech solution to track and trace cigarette products and combat tax evasion. Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Paopoom Rojanasakul unveiled the system on 15 November 2024 at the Tobacco Authority of Thailand in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The innovative system uses QR codes on excise stamps, allowing officials and the public to verify whether tobacco products comply with tax regulations. By scanning the QR code, users can access detailed product information, such as brand, manufacturer, tax payment date, shipping location, and price. This ensures that consumers can confirm the authenticity and legality of their purchases. Products with inconsistent or missing data should be avoided, as they may be counterfeit and pose health risks. Dr. Paopoom highlighted that the excise stamps feature advanced anti-counterfeiting technology similar to that used in banknote printing. Each stamp includes a unique QR code and serial number to enhance transparency and traceability. This approach aligns with international standards and bolsters tax collection efficiency. The QR Cigarette system contributes to creating a comprehensive big data platform, aiding the Excise Department in policy-making and enforcement. Additionally, it enables public participation in monitoring the market, fostering confidence in the quality and safety of tobacco products. Consumers can report suspicious items directly to the department via a built-in alert feature on their mobile devices. Picture courtesy: Thai Government The initiative supports Thailand's governance and transparency policies under the Excise Department's ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy, aiming to promote economic growth while addressing environmental and social concerns. Dr. Paopoom emphasised that the system represents a significant step towards modernising the country's tax administration and ensuring public safety. -- 2024-11-16

Police ‘sidecar’ into bust: Drug suspect nabbed in undercover sting by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Police officers in disguise successfully apprehended a major drug suspect by blending seamlessly into the local community. Disguised as locals, they rode a sidecar motorcycle to the suspect’s home, where they arrested him without raising suspicion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343702-police-‘sidecar’-into-bust-drug-suspect-nabbed-in-undercover-sting/

Police officers in disguise successfully apprehended a major drug suspect by blending seamlessly into the local community. Disguised as locals, they rode a sidecar motorcycle to the suspect’s home, where they arrested him without raising suspicion. Officers from the Elephant Warriors unit of the 434th Border Patrol Police Company in Phatthalung, led by Yothaphon Rungsawat, orchestrated the arrest. The team disguised themselves as ordinary villagers, donning simple gardening clothes and using a sidecar motorcycle to approach the residence of Jarint Kongklai, a 28 year old suspect in a drug-related case. Intelligence had revealed that Jarint had returned to stay at his home in Moo 13, Ban Chai Han, Khok Sai subdistrict, Pa Bon district, prompting the officers to execute their plan. The police aimed to blend in with the local environment to avoid arousing any suspicion. Their choice of a sidecar motorcycle was strategic, as it is a common mode of transportation in the area, thus ensuring that their approach appeared routine. Upon reaching the suspect’s house, they found Jarint sound asleep, unaware of the impending arrest, as the motorcycle made no unusual noise to alert him. The officers surrounded the house and woke him up to present the arrest warrant. Initially, Jarint resisted arrest, requesting to see his mother first. However, he eventually conceded to the police. His mother, upon learning of the arrest, was quoted saying, “This time, let him stay inside for a long time.” His criminal history is extensive, starting in 2016 with a drug case at Hat Yai Police Station, followed by another drug case in 2019 at Rattaphum Police Station. In 2022, he was involved in a theft case at Pa Bon Police Station, reported KhaoSod. In 2024, he faced yet another drug-related case at Pa Bon Police Station. Jarint has served time twice in different prisons, first being released from Nonthaburi Provincial Prison in 2020, and most recently from Phatthalung Central Prison in 2023 for a theft conviction. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Police arrest Sisaket man for firearms and drugs possession by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police successfully conducted a crime crackdown during the Loy Krathong festival, seizing firearms and ammunition. On the day of the operation, officers arrested a 45 year old Thai man, at his residence in Huai Chan subdistrict, Khun Han district, Sisaket province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343698-police-arrest-sisaket-man-for-firearms-and-drugs-possession/

Police successfully conducted a crime crackdown during the Loy Krathong festival, seizing firearms and ammunition. On the day of the operation, officers arrested a 45 year old Thai man, at his residence in Huai Chan subdistrict, Khun Han district, Sisaket province. The operation was spearheaded by Chayaphon Namsuwan, a senior investigator at Khun Han Police Station, and supported by Wanchai Saichan, deputy investigator, alongside local administrative officers and military personnel from Task Force 3 of Suranaree Military Camp. The raid led to the confiscation of three Thai-made rifles, twenty .22 calibre bullets, one 12-gauge shotgun shell, two 5.56 calibre bullets, twenty-five 5.56 calibre bullets, and a black chainsaw. The discovery was part of an ongoing effort to ensure public safety during the festive period, a time when local communities gather to float decorative baskets, or lanterns, on water bodies as part of the traditional celebration. The suspect, Wichai, is charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition without a local registrar’s permit, possession of unauthorised ammunition, and possession of a chainsaw without the required registration. In addition to these charges, Wichai is also facing legal action for the illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic, methamphetamine. Residents in Khun Han district have expressed relief over the police’s proactive measures in tackling crime, particularly during cultural festivities that attract large crowds. The police’s efforts aim to prevent any disturbances or potential threats to public safety, maintaining a secure environment for both locals and visitors. In light of this incident, law enforcement agencies continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities and remind citizens of the importance of adhering to legal regulations regarding firearms and other controlled items. The police have reiterated their zero-tolerance policy towards illegal possession of weapons and drug use, emphasising that such actions will be met with full legal repercussions. The ongoing investigation into Wichai’s activities aims to uncover any additional violations and ensure that justice is served, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Top Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Thai police ‘tweet’ out arrests in illegal bird trade bust by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police have swooped on a major illegal bird trade operation in southern Thailand, arresting two people involved in selling protected Bulbul birds via Facebook. The suspects admitted to selling thousands of birds over the past year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343696-thai-police-‘tweet’-out-arrests-in-illegal-bird-trade-bust/

Thai police have swooped on a major illegal bird trade operation in southern Thailand, arresting two people involved in selling protected Bulbul birds via Facebook. The suspects admitted to selling thousands of birds over the past year. Police officers from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division conducted raids on the homes of two individuals, known by their Facebook aliases as Mee Tha Kham and Ice Nok Ble. These raids took place yesterday in Surat Thani province, leading to the arrest of 48 year old Chinoros, who had been operating a significant illegal bird trade in the region. Chinoros had been using his Facebook account to advertise the sale of the protected Bulbul birds, which were sent to buyers across southern Thailand. Police, upon discovering Chinoros’s activities, sought and obtained a search warrant from the court. During the raid, police discovered and confiscated ten Bulbul birds from his property. Chinoros confessed to purchasing the birds and keeping them at his residence before selling them to customers throughout the region. He acknowledged using Facebook to reach his large following, which had amassed several thousand followers over the past year. He admitted to having sold over a thousand birds during this period. Chinoros explained that the gun seen in photographs on his Facebook profile belonged to a friend named Nueng. Law enforcement plans to track down this individual for further investigation. In a related operation, police also raided the home of another suspect, 29 year old Kaysit, known on Facebook as Ice Nok Boen. Surrounding his residence, officers found numerous bird cages, some of which contained Bulbul birds. A total of 17 Bulbul birds were found, none of which had the required possession permits. Kaysit admitted to purchasing these birds to resell them to customers throughout southern Thailand. He stated that he had sold thousands of birds, with prices ranging from 500 to 3,000 baht (US$15 to 85) each. Most of the birds he acquired were bought from third parties, and police are continuing their efforts to trace the origins of these transactions, reported KhaoSod. The police have charged both Chinoros and Kaysit with possession of protected wildlife without a permit, an offence under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act of 2019. The suspects are now in police custody at Mueang Surat Thani Police Station, where they await further legal proceedings. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Prawit Wongsuwan Joins Loy Krathong, Wishes Thais Happiness Picture courtesy: Siam Rath General Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, participated in Loy Krathong celebrations at the Pa Roy Tor Conservation Foundation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343693-prawit-wongsuwan-joins-loy-krathong-wishes-thais-happiness/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath General Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, participated in Loy Krathong celebrations at the Pa Roy Tor Conservation Foundation. He was joined by key party members, including Santi Promphat, General Krit Yothin Sasipattanawong, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya Tawichai, Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, and Pol. Gen. Chakthip Chaijinda. The event included traditional activities such as floating krathongs and releasing fish, aiming to preserve Thai cultural heritage and promote environmental awareness. General Prawit highlighted the significance of Loy Krathong as an annual Thai tradition celebrated nationwide to honour Phra Mae Khongkha (the Goddess of Water). The festival embodies the beauty and essence of Thailand's culture, offering a moment for reflection and gratitude. Extending his wishes, he said, “May everyone find joy and fulfilment during this festival. May your wishes come true, and may you be blessed with good health. Let all negativity drift away, making room for happiness and success.” He also urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and cherish this opportunity to connect with Thailand’s rich traditions, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-16

UPDATE: British expats uncovered in Thailand as UK probes pension fraud by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of William Russell In a fresh twist for British expats soaking up the sun abroad, the cloak of UK banking secrecy is about to be lifted if there’s a whiff of state pension fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343598-uk-pensioners-in-thailand-face-new-scrutiny-over-pension-fraud/?do=findComment&comment=19382998

Frenchman faces legal action for unlawful macaque possession in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department's Facebook A French national has found himself facing legal action for allegedly keeping four young macaques unlawfully after showcasing them on social media. This incident unfolded when officials from the Natural Resources, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343665-frenchman-faces-legal-action-for-unlawful-macaque-possession-in-bangkok/

Pattaya Beach turns into unregulated booze and kratom market Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya Beach, a once serene paradise for tourists and locals, is now teetering on the edge of chaos as unlicenced vendors run rampant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343673-pattaya-beach-turns-into-unregulated-booze-and-kratom-market/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 16 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343675-thailand-live-saturday-16-november-2024/

The Suvarnabhumi Airport, internationally renowned and Thailand's busiest, is in for a significant overhaul with plans to be the top transit hub in Southeast Asia. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) have released an ambitious master plan aimed at boosting the percentages of transit flights from a mere 4% to a lofty 20%. The ultimate aim is to join the ranks of the world's top 20 airports by the year 2030. Thailand Looks to Bolster Suvarnabhumi Airport as Southeast Asia's Top Transit Hub Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343669-thailand-looks-to-bolster-suvarnabhumi-airport-as-southeast-asias-top-transit-hub/

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Thaksin to Join Pheu Thai Workshop as 'Expert Guest' Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's ex-Prime Minister, will participate as an "invited expert" at a Pheu Thai Party seminar in Hua Hin next month, confirmed Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343674-thaksin-to-attend-pheu-thai-workshop-as-expert-guest/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's ex-Prime Minister, will participate as an "invited expert" at a Pheu Thai Party seminar in Hua Hin next month, confirmed Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong. Despite a court ban preventing him from holding office, Thaksin's business and governance expertise remains influential within his faction. Reflecting his continuing sway, Thaksin recently supported Pheu Thai candidate campaigns, including in Udon Thani, fuelling ongoing allegations of his undue influence in Thai politics. His daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leads Pheu Thai, a party critics allege Thaksin manipulates from the sidelines. Legal actions have targeted Thaksin for allegedly interfering in internal Pheu Thai affairs, with lawsuits filed by activists aiming to enforce penalties. His clandestine political manoeuvring is notable, particularly following the ousting of former PM Srettha Thavisin last August, reportedly organising secret coalition meetings at his residence. Amidst controversy, during his prior hospital stay, Thaksin purportedly impacted strategic party decisions, influencing the formation of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government, cabinet assignments, and power plays against opposition parties. His alleged behind-the-scenes role was facilitated by Phumtham Wechayachai, now serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister. Thaksin's role as an "invited expert" at the upcoming Pheu Thai workshop underscores his enduring prominence and raises questions about his influence. Despite legal restrictions, his engagement reflects a complex legacy of control within Pheu Thai and broader Thai politics. The seminar's participants and observers alike will focus on Thaksin's contributions, which could further ignite debate over his persistent political presence and sway, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-15

UPDATE: British expats uncovered in Thailand as UK probes pension fraud by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of William Russell In a fresh twist for British expats soaking up the sun abroad, the cloak of UK banking secrecy is about to be lifted if there’s a whiff of state pension fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343598-uk-pensioners-in-thailand-face-new-scrutiny-over-pension-fraud/?do=findComment&comment=19382998

British expats uncovered in Thailand as UK probes pension fraud by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of William Russell In a fresh twist for British expats soaking up the sun abroad, the cloak of UK banking secrecy is about to be lifted if there’s a whiff of state pension fraud. The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, currently being dissected in the House of Lords, is pegged to hit the legal books in early 2025. This new legislation will compel British banks and building societies to unveil the financial dealings of Brits, whether they’re at home or living it up overseas, wherever wrongdoing is suspected. The spotlight is on the crafty few amongst British retirees who’ve been dodging the rules by hiding their residence in countries where the state pension doesn’t get those lovely inflation hikes. The rules, it seems, are as clear as mud: while pension rises grace some nations (think the EU and the Philippines), others get left in the cold (alas, Thailand and Australia). A staggering half a million British pensioners are out there in the world with frozen state pensions, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reckons they’re overpaying to the tune of £100 million (4.5 billion baht). Sneaky suspects often maintain a UK address for their DWP correspondence, even though they’re globe-trotting. One cheeky chap in Thailand got caught out last year when his DWP letter sent to his London pad pinged back with a neighbour’s scribbled note: “Lucky sod lives in Pattaya.” Bangkok or Baghdad Another tale of deceit unravelled when a bloke’s missus discovered he was having a ball in Bangkok, rather than toiling away in Baghdad as he’d fibbed. The upcoming legislation will likely help digital systems flag those pensioners getting yearly bumps but appearing suspiciously to be parked in foreign locales. Yet, the Thailand-based campaign group advocating to thaw frozen UK pensions insists the real issue isn’t so much roguish retirees but rather DWP bungles and the ridiculous dance of which country gets what. The current Labour administration, much like its Conservative predecessor, hasn’t shown a hint of interest in righting this pension injustice. Adding to the expats’ woes is the unreliable international mail system. Every few years, UK officials demand proof of life to keep the pension payments coming. But these vital letters get tossed in the wind, sent as ordinary mail via a Dutch firm, and many go AWOL, halting payments when unanswered. “It’s just bonkers!” exclaimed 68 year old Frank Weston, a resident in Pattaya. He argues it’s high time to ditch the paperwork for a digital solution. For those Brits abroad, it seems the pension plot thickens! Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Thailand consumer confidence rises for first time in eight months by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MGR Online Consumer confidence in Thailand saw its first improvement in eight months this October, driven by reduced concerns over recent floods and improved economic conditions influenced by government policies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343644-thailand-consumer-confidence-rises-for-first-time-in-eight-months/