Thai Authorities Investigate Foreign Land and Property Ownership

According to a report by Khaosod Online, the Thai Ministry of Commerce has launched an investigation into corporate land and condominium ownership to identify potential illegal nominee arrangements. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director-General of the Department of Business Development, stated that the department reviewed 125,622 juristic entities.

Data from the Department of Lands revealed that these entities collectively hold over 1.26 million land title deeds, covering approximately 4.5 million rai. Of these, 100% Thai-owned entities account for roughly 76% of the total land area. However, entities with foreign investment hold 36,277 title deeds, covering over 1.06 million rai.

For residents and expatriates, this investigation highlights a heightened regulatory focus on property ownership structures. While the government is currently in the investigative phase, the collaboration between the Ministry of Commerce, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) suggests a serious effort to ensure compliance with existing land ownership laws. It remains to be confirmed how many of these foreign-invested holdings may be classified as illegal nominee structures and what specific enforcement actions, if any, will be taken against the entities involved. The investigation is ongoing, and further details regarding the legal status of these properties are expected as the authorities continue their audit.