Economy
GULF Denies Liability in Thaicom Satellite Concession Dispute
GULF Energy Development has formally denied any obligation to pay 1.25 billion baht regarding a satellite concession dispute, asserting that all assets were returned in 2021.
On September 7, 2026, GULF Energy Development PCL issued a statement to the Stock Exchange of Thailand addressing reports that the Cabinet had instructed the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to pursue legal action against Thaicom PCL and GULF. The dispute concerns allegations that Thaicom failed to fully deliver assets under its 30-year domestic satellite concession, potentially incurring a penalty of approximately 1.25 billion baht.
In its filing, GULF maintained that Thaicom, as the operator, fulfilled its contractual obligations and completed the transfer of all required assets to the Ministry on September 11, 2021. GULF stated that it is prepared to exercise its legal rights should any claims for damages be formally pursued.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights an ongoing administrative and legal review of state-concessioned infrastructure. While this dispute involves corporate entities and government ministries, it underscores the complexities surrounding the transition of telecommunications assets in Thailand. At this stage, it remains to be confirmed how the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society will respond to GULF’s assertion and whether the government will proceed with formal legal proceedings to seek the contested 1.25 billion baht. No immediate impact on public telecommunications services has been reported.