Thailand Pushes for Tier 1 in US Trafficking Report

Thailand has pledged to intensify its crackdown on human trafficking as it seeks to move from Tier 2 to Tier 1 in the United States Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, where it has remained for four consecutive years as of 2025. Government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said improved coordination, stronger enforcement and expanded international cooperation have boosted confidence in achieving the upgrade. The shift is seen as important for strengthening investor confidence and supporting the tourism sector.

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Authorities say progress has been made through better integration of data systems to tackle online scams and transnational crime. Cooperation with countries including the US and China has increased, with efforts focused on preventing criminal entry, repatriating offenders and freezing mule accounts. Officials also highlighted action against attempts by foreign criminals to fraudulently obtain Thai citizenship.

Thailand has stepped up joint operations with the US to dismantle call centre scam networks and human trafficking rings, seizing assets worth more than 20 billion baht. A major case involved the prosecution and asset seizures of Ben Smith, Yim Liak and their associates, with investigations expanding to other money laundering groups. Authorities also dismantled a large network along the Thai-Cambodian border, where more than 10,000 trafficked individuals were forced into scam operations.

The government is preparing to launch a new intelligence platform, SHIELD, with the Royal Thai Police set to roll it out in June. The system will act as a regional information-sharing hub linking more than 10 countries to combat scams and trafficking. Officials say the initiative builds on existing tools such as the IAC War Room, which enables rapid account freezes and asset recovery in cooperation with financial institutions and mobile providers.

Recent talks in Washington, DC, from April 21 to 25 between Thai and US officials focused on strengthening intelligence sharing and operational coordination. Authorities noted that American victims alone lost more than US$6 billion, to such crimes in the past year. Close cooperation with the FBI has led to arrests and significant asset seizures.

The Bangkokpost reported that the prime minister has declared the suppression of transnational crime and scam networks a national priority, with instructions for agencies to intensify crackdowns, particularly in border areas. Officials insist Thailand will not serve as a transit hub for criminal enterprises. The government believes sustained enforcement and international collaboration will help secure Tier 1 status in future assessments.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 4 May 2026