Law
Authorities Investigate Suspected Nominee Businesses on Koh Samui
Thai officials are cracking down on approximately 8,000 businesses on Koh Samui suspected of using foreign nominees to circumvent land ownership laws.
According to a report by Matichon Online on August 15, 2026, Thai authorities have launched a targeted operation to investigate roughly 8,000 businesses on the island of Koh Samui. Officials, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Phonpee and Samran, are leading the crackdown, which focuses on identifying foreign entities that may be using local nominees to bypass strict regulations regarding land ownership.
Investigators have observed a shift in tactics among these entities. Rather than attempting direct land purchases, which are restricted for foreigners under Thai law, some businesses are reportedly utilizing long-term 30-year lease agreements to maintain control over property. This phase of the operation, referred to as 'Phase 7,' aims to dismantle these nominee structures and ensure compliance with national regulations.
For residents and long-term visitors, this development highlights an ongoing effort by the government to tighten oversight of foreign business operations in popular tourist destinations. While the investigation is currently focused on corporate structures and land tenure, it remains to be confirmed how these enforcement actions might impact the operational status of specific businesses or the broader real estate market on the island. Authorities have instructed provincial officials to accelerate their inquiries into these suspected cases to determine the extent of the non-compliance.