Eight Chinese nationals have been arrested in Chiang Mai's Hang Dong district for filming a drama series without the necessary permits. Acting on a complaint, the Tourist Police Division 2 discovered the group using a rented property for filming intended for social media distribution.

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The individuals admitted they lacked the official permission required for film production in Thailand. Despite the growing trend of short-form dramas among Thai audiences, the group did not comply with local regulations. They had entered the country on tourist visas without work permits, further complicating their legal standing.

According to Thai law, film production requires oversight by government agencies to ensure content is appropriate and does not misrepresent the country. Violations can lead to fines up to 1 million baht. The production crew faces initial charges for working without permission, which can result in fines between 5,000 and 50,000 baht, deportation, and a two-year work permit ban.

Police emphasized the importance of the Film and Video Act, which mandates pre-approval of scripts to protect Thailand's image. Further legal actions regarding the unpermitted filming will be determined by the Thailand Film Office under the Department of Tourism. This case highlights the rigorous oversight of foreign film productions in Thailand and serves as a cautionary example to compliance with local regulations.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 08 May 2026

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The Chinese are way worse offenders on stuff like this, and much more, than anyone as they couldn't give a flying f**k for anything or any country's laws... gets downplayed though because of Beijing's fragile and proudful hurty ears along with the spinelessness of politicians in this part of the world.

It's not just the permits, it's the fees. I remember paying 35,000 per day to film in Ayutthaya back in 2011.

11 minutes ago, Sir Dude said:

The Chinese are way worse offenders on stuff like this

We were in a nice restaurant that has lovely gardens with water features etc for dinner yesterday. 2 Chinese women came in, sat down at a table near us, were presented with menus, then got up and headed to the gardens for a 10 minute photo shoot before walking out never to return.

Chinese, and a couple of others, seem to think they can do whatever they please here. Perhaps not realizing Thailand has rules against practically everything pertaining especially to foreigners!!