Economy
Authorities Crack Down on Real Estate Nominee Schemes in Hua Hin
Thai officials have raided 15 locations in Hua Hin, uncovering a nominee scheme involving over 300 million baht in damages.
On August 10, 2026, the Department of Business Development (DBD) led a multi-agency operation in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, to investigate illegal nominee business practices. According to Khaosod Online, the operation involved the Royal Thai Police, the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), the Tourist Police, the Immigration Bureau, and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).
Authorities inspected 15 locations linked to real estate holding and rental businesses. Investigators identified a pattern where companies were initially registered as Thai legal entities, only to have their board members replaced by foreign nationals shortly thereafter. A key indicator of this illicit activity was the discovery that the Thai and foreign directors involved in these firms had no prior acquaintance with one another. The total estimated damage from these schemes is reported to exceed 300 million baht.
For residents and expatriates, this crackdown highlights increased government scrutiny regarding business ownership structures and compliance with Thai law. While these actions target specific illegal corporate practices, they underscore the importance of ensuring that any property or business arrangements strictly adhere to local regulations. It remains to be confirmed how many individuals will face formal charges and whether this operation will expand to other popular tourist destinations across Thailand.