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Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a dramatic turn of events at the Thai-Cambodian border, a Thai-Indian man was apprehended Sunday at the Khlong Luek checkpoint in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, carrying a staggering 15.7 million baht in cash. The man, identified as Mr. Om, 47, aroused suspicion when he attempted to cross into Thailand from Cambodia's Poipet with a notably large backpack. Upon conducting a search at the checkpoint, officials were taken aback by the vast sum of money concealed within the bag. Mr. Om claimed the money was a casino win earned in Poipet, yet authorities remain sceptical of his explanation. Suspecting illicit activities, the officials arrested him on charges of violating Section 242 of the Customs Act B.E. 2560, alongside non-compliance with the Finance Ministry’s foreign exchange rules. The Sa Kaeo Immigration Bureau has since launched an expanded investigation to trace the origins of the cash. This incident comes amidst heightened security measures along the border, following the Thai government's recent moves to curtail resources—electricity, internet, and fuel— to three Myanmar townships known for harbouring transnational crime syndicates. These areas, Tachileik, Myawaddy, and Payathonzu, have become hotspots for scams and criminal operations. The fear now is that these syndicates may be relocating their operations to Cambodia, with potential pathways into Thailand. The strict border control measures aim to preempt such expansions, but the current situation remains fluid and under close observation. Authorities continue to scrutinise the situation, determined to unravel any connections Mr. Om might have with broader criminal organisations. The hope is that these efforts will not only address this individual case but also contribute to a broader crackdown on cross-border criminal enterprises leveraging regional instabilities. The retention of Mr. Om and the ongoing investigations underline the pressing need for vigilance and cooperation between regional authorities to tackle these pervasive and dynamic transnational threats effectively, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-24

CCIB chief shows scam tex. // Photo via CCIB/Phuket News Phuket is witnessing an alarming rise in financial fraud, with over 5,500 individuals falling victim to scams in the past year, resulting in cumulative losses of 413 million baht. These figures were confirmed by Police Colonel Kritsada Manawongsakun, head of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) Region 5. There has been a sharp increase in scam activities since 2022. Last year, while there were 1,365 reported victims who collectively lost 10.9 million baht, the numbers jumped dramatically in 2023 to 3,538 victims with 18.8 million baht in losses. By 2024, the figures skyrocketed to 5,510 victims, with financial damages amounting to an astounding 413 million baht. Reacting to these developments, the TCSD has intensified efforts to warn the public and guide them on how to avoid falling prey to fraudsters. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), established in September 2020, is responsible for addressing cybercrime, recognised as a threat to national security. Pol. Col. Kritsada's jurisdiction includes 14 provinces in southern Thailand, where efforts are focused on countering the rise in cybercrime and safeguarding citizens from future threats. In January 2025 alone, Thailand reported 31,165 cases of technology-related fraud, averaging 1,005 incidents daily. Predominantly, these involved fraudulent online sales, comprising 55.88% of the cases and resulting in victim losses exceeding 145 million baht. Additional prevalent scams included job offer fraud, prize claim scams, call centre deceptions, fraudulent loans, and investment scams, collectively causing over 2 billion baht in losses in just one month. During this period, police froze 10,410 bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities, recovering assets worth approximately 448 million baht. Despite the extensive scale of fraud, authorities have only managed to recover a fraction—about 10%—of the victims’ funds. The tactics of scammers have evolved significantly in recent years. In 2022, fraud mainly involved false sales offers and deceptive work-from-home opportunities. By 2023, scammers shifted focus to sophisticated online financial fraud and increased fake sales activity. In 2024, fraudulent lending schemes and deceptive investment opportunities became prevalent, with misleading sales remaining a common strategy. Fraudsters have adopted personal phone numbers and the guise of government agencies to instill fear and manipulate victims. Common tactics involve requesting sensitive personal information such as ID or credit card details or soliciting money transfers to expedite fictitious cases. Victims are urged to report incidents to local police, who will evaluate the situation and collaborate with the CCIB and TCSD for further investigations. Phuket Provincial Police Commander, Pol. Maj. General Sinlert Sukhum, advises that both locals and expatriates who suspect scam activities should immediately report to any police station or contact the hotline 1441 to secure their bank accounts. These efforts underscore the ongoing battle against cybercrime in Phuket and highlight the necessity for public vigilance and proactive measures to combat this growing issue, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-24

Phuket Scams Surge: 5,500 Victims and 413 Million Baht Lost CCIB chief shows scam tex. // Photo via CCIB/Phuket News Phuket is witnessing an alarming rise in financial fraud, with over 5,500 individuals falling victim to scams in the past year, resulting in cumulative losses of 413 million baht. These figures were confirmed by Police Colonel Kritsada Manawongsakun, head of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) Region 5. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352682-phuket-scams-surge-5500-victims-and-413-million-baht-lost/

Thai-Indian Man Arrested with 15.7 Million Baht 'Casino Winnings' Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a dramatic turn of events at the Thai-Cambodian border, a Thai-Indian man was apprehended Sunday at the Khlong Luek checkpoint in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, carrying a staggering 15.7 million baht in cash. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352679-thai-indian-man-arrested-with-157-million-baht-casino-winnings/

Thaksin Apologises for Tak Bai Tragedy, Downplays Narathiwat Car Bombing Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a significant gesture, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has publicly apologised for the Tak Bai incident, expressing regret for the tragic events during his tenure. The announcement came as Thaksin visited Narathiwat, part of a diplomatic mission to the southern provinces alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352677-thaksin-apologises-for-tak-bai-tragedy-downplays-narathiwat-car-bombing/

Desperate Husband Offers 20,000 Baht for Missing Wife's Return Photo of the missing woman // Photo via Khaosod In a heartfelt plea that has captured widespread attention, a Chon Buri man, Khomsan, has offered a reward of 20,000 baht for any information leading to the whereabouts of his missing wife, who disappeared on February 19. The 36-year-old contractor from the Ban Bueng district is deeply concerned for her well-being, especially as she left without her belongings or money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352676-desperate-husband-offers-20000-baht-for-missing-wifes-return/

llegal Condo Rentals Spark Concerns in Thailand Photo via Drama-addict Facebook page A growing issue over allegedly illegal condo rentals by Chinese owners has recently surfaced in Thailand, drawing significant attention and concerns from local residents and authorities. This trend sees Chinese nationals purchasing properties and renting them out as short-term accommodations, sidestepping the regulations normally required for hotel operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352674-illegal-condo-rentals-spark-concerns-in-thailand/

Photo via Drama-addict Facebook page A growing issue over allegedly illegal condo rentals by Chinese owners has recently surfaced in Thailand, drawing significant attention and concerns from local residents and authorities. This trend sees Chinese nationals purchasing properties and renting them out as short-term accommodations, sidestepping the regulations normally required for hotel operations. The problem was highlighted by a popular Facebook page, which has detailed the plight of residents in affected buildings. These residents have seen an increasing number of foreigners with luggage entering their buildings, giving the appearance of bustling hotels rather than peaceful homes. The page reveals that these condo owners are predominantly Chinese, often owning numerous units within a single building—sometimes dominating entire floors. The consequence for other residents is an environment akin to living in a busy hotel, disrupting their peace and daily lives. Furthermore, these short-term tenants, often arriving without understanding or caring for communal regulations, engage in activities such as indoor cannabis smoking, alcohol consumption in shared spaces, and even swimming in pools with shoes on. In some cases, parking areas have been used improperly, with reports of tourists driving against the flow of traffic. These actions not only cause disconcerting disturbances but also leave the management of these buildings with few options, as tourists usually leave before any damages can be assessed or rectified. In efforts to combat this issue, some buildings have turned to technology, installing face scan systems to restrict access and replace traditional keycard systems. However, these measures seem to fall short, as the scanning systems continue to register an alarming rate of around 70 to 100 new entries each month. Attempts to engage the Department of Provincial Administration for inspections have proven problematic, as there appears to be no designated authority responsible for regulating daily rentals. Without decisive intervention from building managers or government bodies, the problem seems set to persist, as reported by KhaoSod. In a related twist, former senator Rosana Tositrakul has recently called on the Bangkok governor to enforce a decade-old court order concerning the demolition of the Aetas condominium in Pathumwan district. The 21-storey building remains in defiance of the Building Control Act, continuing to stand despite the Supreme Administrative Court's directive for its removal. The scale of illegal rentals and unresolved building violations presents an ongoing challenge, raising questions about the enforceability of regulations and the balance between property ownership and community welfare in Thailand's rapidly developing urban landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-24

Photo of the missing woman // Photo via Khaosod In a heartfelt plea that has captured widespread attention, a Chon Buri man, Khomsan, has offered a reward of 20,000 baht for any information leading to the whereabouts of his missing wife, who disappeared on February 19. The 36-year-old contractor from the Ban Bueng district is deeply concerned for her well-being, especially as she left without her belongings or money. Together for over a decade, Khomsan and his wife share three children—a 10-year-old daughter and two sons, aged six and four. Her sudden absence at 7.30am that day has left a void in the family, with Khomsan and the children anxiously awaiting her return. The only lead thus far has surfaced from CCTV footage, which captured his wife walking near a Mitsubishi dealership and the Nong Chak intersection, moving away from their home. This image has spurred Khomsan's search efforts, which include filing a report with the Ban Bueng Police Station. Khomsan insists there were no disruptions in their relationship, no quarrel that might hint at her voluntary departure. Communication had been normal, and her disappearance was entirely unexpected. His primary concern remains their children's growing questions regarding their mother's absence. While attempting to shield them by saying she’s on errands, he is burdened by the uncertainty of how long he can maintain this narrative without answers. He appeals tirelessly to the public, hoping that offering a monetary incentive will prompt someone with pertinent information to come forward and assist in reuniting their family. Meanwhile, in a related and troubling story, another Thai woman has been missing for three months. Her parents expressed fears for her safety after evidence surfaced that she suffered domestic abuse at the hands of her Bangladeshi boyfriend in Oman. Friends have informed them about her distress prior to her sudden disappearance, compounding their worries. These distressing cases highlight the personal turmoil that families undergo when loved ones are lost, and the ongoing need for communal vigilance and cooperation to ensure these individuals' safe return, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-02-24

Investigation Finds No Israeli Settlements or Business Dominance in Pai Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post Recent investigations in Pai, a popular district in Mae Hong Son province, reveal no Israeli settlements or business dominance, contrary to some social media claims. Police Major General Songkrit Ontakrai, leading the effort, assured that all businesses were found to be Thai-owned after comprehensive checks of tourist sites and commercial areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352691-investigation-finds-no-israeli-settlements-or-business-dominance-in-pai/

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post Recent investigations in Pai, a popular district in Mae Hong Son province, reveal no Israeli settlements or business dominance, contrary to some social media claims. Police Major General Songkrit Ontakrai, leading the effort, assured that all businesses were found to be Thai-owned after comprehensive checks of tourist sites and commercial areas. Authorities investigated streets, car rentals, guesthouses, religious sites, villages, and hotels, confirming no foreign ownership. They also cautioned visitors against public disturbances, including cigarette smoking, cannabis use, and alcohol consumption in public spaces. During a patrol on Pai's walking street on Saturday night, officials detained and fined ten individuals for public cannabis smoking, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain local order. Notably, there are 84 licensed cannabis shops on this street. This year alone, 4,573 Israelis visited Pai, yet only 24 sought an extension of their stay by February 19. Despite the presence of 3,257 rental rooms in Pai, claims suggesting 30,000 Israeli visitors were dismissed as unfounded based on available accommodations. In the past year, police arrested 1,634 foreigners for traffic violations and 27 visitors, including 13 Israelis, for illegal immigration. Pol Maj Gen Songkrit reiterated that law enforcement and local authorities remain committed to preserving Pai as a cherished tourist destination, ensuring both local businesses and visitors abide by regulations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-24

Israelis in Thailand Urged to Uphold Respectful Conduct File photo courtesy: Thai PBS In light of recent incidents, the Embassy of Israel in Thailand has taken steps to ensure that Israeli citizens visiting the country maintain respectful behaviour and uphold a favourable image. This comes after dissatisfaction was expressed over the actions of some Israelis in the tourist hotspot of Pai, located in Mae Hong Son province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352688-israelis-in-thailand-urged-to-uphold-respectful-conduct/

File photo courtesy: Thai PBS In light of recent incidents, the Embassy of Israel in Thailand has taken steps to ensure that Israeli citizens visiting the country maintain respectful behaviour and uphold a favourable image. This comes after dissatisfaction was expressed over the actions of some Israelis in the tourist hotspot of Pai, located in Mae Hong Son province. The embassy used its official Facebook page to disseminate guidance on appropriate behaviour for Israeli visitors in Thailand. This move is partially in response to local concerns about the activities of Israelis in Pai, especially regarding the establishment of a Jewish synagogue, which stirred worries about potential overreach. Authorities have clarified that the chabad, a centre for religious and community gatherings, meets all legal requirements and that the visiting Israelis were lawful tourists. The embassy counselled its citizens to align with Thai customs and legal standards, highlighting the importance of retaining a positive international image and fostering amiable relations. Recommendations include curbing loud behaviour in shared spaces, respecting private property, adhering to traffic rules, observing visa limitations, dressing suitably, and negotiating courteously in markets. The issuance of these guidelines follows reports of deportations involving several Israelis due to breaches of local laws. Highlighting the generally warm reception Israeli nationals receive in Thailand, the embassy stressed the importance of preserving goodwill and mutual respect between the two countries. A recent event at the chabad centre saw some 200 to 300 Israelis gather for religious observance and communal meals, during which immigration police found no laws were violated. However, other incidents have tainted local perceptions, notably an episode where four Israeli men reportedly vandalised a Pai Hospital emergency room during an attempt to visit an injured compatriot after a motorcycle accident. Public reactions on social media varied, with some users defending the presence and activities of Israelis in Thailand. A commenter named Wasu Yok Koysiripong remarked that the response to the chabad centre seemed overblown, arguing that hosting numerous visitors doesn’t equate to domination. Meanwhile, Hila Raviv Gozlan suggested that chabad houses should actively share behavioural guidelines with their guests to encourage adherence. The embassy’s proactive approach seeks to mitigate tension and ensure that Israeli visitors enjoy their stay in Thailand while respecting local norms and regulations, reported Bangkok Post -- 2025-02-24

Foreign Couple’s Haircut Scam at Koh Phangan Salon A couple believed to be Pakistani, avoided paying for a haircut at a Koh Phangan salon in what was uncovered as a scam, after CCTV footage exposed their deception. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352608-foreign-couple’s-haircut-scam-at-koh-phangan-salon/

Online Gambling on Football and Muay Thai Expected to Be Legalised Online football and Muay Thai gambling are expected to be legalised, according to Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352596-online-gambling-on-football-and-muay-thai-expected-to-be-legalised/

Nigerian Man Arrested After Attempting to Flee Immigration Officers in Sattahip A 52-year-old Nigerian man has been arrested in Sattahip for illegally entering Thailand, following a short chase in which he attempted to flee but fell between parked cars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352641-nigerian-man-arrested-after-attempting-to-flee-immigration-officers-in-sattahip/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 24 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352637-thailand-live-monday-24-february-2025/

Turkish Traveller Overwhelmed by Thai Kindness After Struggling to Hitchhike to Chiang Mai Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A Turkish traveller has vowed to share the generosity of the Thai people with the world after spending six hours attempting to hitchhike to Chiang Mai, only to be met with an outpouring of support from locals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352610-turkish-traveller-overwhelmed-by-thai-kindness-after-struggling-to-hitchhike-to-chiang-mai/

Phuket Police Bust Illegal Gambling Ring, 13 Chinese Tourists Caught Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police As Phuket prepares to bask in the summer sun, a recent police operation has brought a different spotlight to the island. On 20th February, Phuket Provincial Police arrested 13 Chinese tourists involved in an illegal gambling operation in the heart of Phuket Town. Supported by local Thai collaborators, the gambling haven was uncovered amid growing concerns about illicit activities catering to foreign visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352555-phuket-police-bust-illegal-gambling-ring-13-chinese-tourists-caught/

Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police As Phuket prepares to bask in the summer sun, a recent police operation has brought a different spotlight to the island. On 20th February, Phuket Provincial Police arrested 13 Chinese tourists involved in an illegal gambling operation in the heart of Phuket Town. Supported by local Thai collaborators, the gambling haven was uncovered amid growing concerns about illicit activities catering to foreign visitors. The orchestrated raid, led by Police Colonel Ekkalak Boonsangcharoen, targeted the Phuket Poker Sport Club in Soi Poonphol. The swoop, executed at 11 pm, unveiled a scene of covert activities where the tourists were found exchanging chips worth over 1 million Thai Baht (approximately £22,200) for cash. This stash of illicit earnings included a bevy of gambling paraphernalia such as four poker tables, two fish shooting arcade machines, and five electric mahjong tables. A single Thai gambler was also caught in the police net, having been present at this underground gaming joint run by a local Thai national with Chinese connections. The raid resulted in the confiscation of all gambling equipment and funds, which were swiftly transported to the Phuket City Police Station for further investigation and legal measures. Phuket Provincial Police Commander, Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, has since stated that investigations are ongoing, delving into the roles of both Thai nationals and potential Chinese investors linked to this operation. The authorities are keen to unearth deeper connections, which may indicate a broader network of clandestine gambling enterprises. Picture courtesy: Phuket Provincial Police Meanwhile, in a related crackdown in Bangkok's Don Mueang district, another gambling den was dismantled the same day by police officers led by Police Major General Jesada Suaysom and Police Major General Chotiwat Lueangwilai. This venue, notorious for its repeat offenses, was raided for the third time since 2024. Police uncovered a newly constructed, highly fortified entrance, and despite a rush of attempted escapes, managed to detain 29 individuals, comprising 10 men and 19 women. These decisive actions reflect a broader law enforcement agenda aimed at curbing illegal activities, ensuring that the anticipated summer influx of visitors can enjoy the island and the Thai mainland without encountering illicit distractions. As Phuket enters the vibrant and lucrative summer season, the authorities are keen to maintain both the legal and social tranquillity that attracts tourists to its shores, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-22

Thailand's Summer Starts Next Week, Intense Heat Expected File photo As next week marks the onset of summer in Thailand, meteorologists forecast a particularly scorching season, particularly in the north and northeast of the country. The Thai Meteorological Department has announced that the summer period will officially kick off from 28th February and run through to mid-May. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352552-thailands-summer-starts-next-week-intense-heat-expected/

File photo As next week marks the onset of summer in Thailand, meteorologists forecast a particularly scorching season, particularly in the north and northeast of the country. The Thai Meteorological Department has announced that the summer period will officially kick off from 28th February and run through to mid-May. Despite the seasonal change, there's a ray of hope for cooler weather this year due to La Niña, which is expected to take some of the edge off the usual intense heat. The phenomenon is anticipated to result in a more moderate temperature range, hovering around 35°C to 36°C—slightly under last year’s hotter average of 37.5°C. Director-General Sugunyanee Yavinchan from the Meteorological Department underscored that although the overall temperatures might see a slight dip, this summer isn’t set to be a walk in the park, especially for residents in specific areas. The warning extends to 14 provinces including Chaiyaphum, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Uttaradit, where mercury levels are expected to soar past 42°C as April approaches. During this month, typically the peak of summer, the heat is predicted to be most intense. In addition to the heat, La Niña might influence more rain than usual—up to 20% above the typical average for February to May. However, the impacts of this are likely to be sporadic, causing brief showers across various regions rather than consistent, widespread rainfall. Residents in high-risk heat areas should prepare themselves for these extreme conditions. The department advises precautionary measures to stay cool, hydrated, and efficient energy usage as the nation braces for likely spikes in electricity demand, leading to fuel bills climbing steeply. Households and businesses can expect the effects to be financially taxing, with energy costs potentially nudging up from their current rates. In summation, even with La Niña lending a touch of reprieve, this impending summer in Thailand remains a time for caution, particularly for those in the north and northeastern provinces. As locals prepare to face the heat head-on, a mix of sun and sporadic showers offers a backdrop to the season's searing narrative. Overall, it's a summery spectacle inviting both watchfulness and adaptation, reminding us of nature's perpetual dance with climate fluctuations throughout the region. As temperatures rise, so too does the importance of prescient preparations to beat the heat safely and soundly, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-22

Picture courtesy: The Nation The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) has heightened its surveillance of areas with significant foreign populations across Thailand. This comes as a preventive measure following recent tensions involving Israeli tourists in Pai, Mae Hong Son province. Issued on 21 February, the directive from ISOC's Second Operational Command aims to ensure foreigners adhere to local laws and to maintain harmony within communities. The order stresses the importance of avoiding conflicts that could damage international relations and advises local ISOC branches to focus on Thailand's national security, economy, and tourism. The move responds to a spate of incidents in Pai, where friction between Israeli visitors and locals escalated. As a result, some local businesses have started to refuse service to Israeli nationals due to reported disturbances. The picturesque town of Pai, known for its cool climate and diverse attractions, draws around 3,000 to 4,000 Israeli tourists monthly. A source from the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok highlighted that many Israelis favour Thailand's northern mountainous areas over coastal destinations. Pai's appeal includes its welcoming atmosphere, culinary offerings, and availability of kosher food, aligning with Jewish dietary laws. ISOC's enhanced monitoring aims to foster a peaceful coexistence between Thai citizens and foreign nationals, supporting sustainable community relations, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-22

Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) to Monitor Foreigners in Thailand Picture courtesy: The Nation The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) has heightened its surveillance of areas with significant foreign populations across Thailand. This comes as a preventive measure following recent tensions involving Israeli tourists in Pai, Mae Hong Son province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352541-internal-security-operations-command-isoc-to-monitor-foreigners in-thailand/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia ANALYSIS Visa agencies throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand, have long played a crucial role in easing the complex immigration processes for foreigners. However, changing regulations and technology are presenting new challenges to their operations. Historically, visa agencies have been pivotal for expatriates in Thailand since the 1980s, often doubling as travel and financial service providers. Over the decades, the landscape of visa options expanded significantly, leading to a surge in demand for agency services to navigate the increasingly complex immigration regulations. During the 1990s, the introduction of retirement visas and non-immigrant visas for specialised groups bolstered the necessity of visa agencies. They offered relief from lengthy queues and cumbersome paperwork through services such as address verifications and residency certificates. The early 2000s saw a flurry of new visa categories, including the Thai Elite Visa and the Long Term Residence Visa, further heightening the demand for agency expertise. Yet, this growth has not been without its problems. Recent visa types, like the Destination Thailand Visa, have added layers of complexity due to varied embassy rules and discretionary extensions, prompting discussions on the efficacy of using agents. Today, the golden era for Thai visa agencies appears to be waning. The ease of obtaining 60-day tourist visas on arrival reduces the necessity for border runs, traditionally facilitated by these agencies. Additionally, increased scrutiny and advanced technology have tightened immigration checks, curtailing opportunities for exploiting volunteer or education visas, which were once lucrative pathways. Consequently, smaller agencies are closing down as their services become less essential. Looking ahead, visa agencies may need to specialise further and offer more than just visa advice. With Thailand's shift towards an online visa system, successful agencies may diversify into offering complementary services like travel insurance and transportation. Essentially, these agencies must adapt to provide a premium, convenient service if they wish to remain relevant. Moreover, ongoing regulatory changes present additional obstacles. In February 2025, a ban on agencies opening or managing bank accounts hampered operations due to unrelated scams. Future hurdles could include the rise of electronic travel gates and the potential phase-out of traditional passports in favour of digital identification. To survive long-term, Thai visa agencies must evolve alongside technological and regulatory trends, aligning their offerings with the demands of a digital, rapidly shifting landscape, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2025-02-22