Surat Thani Governor Urged to Crack Down on Illegal Foreign Business Ownership
Former MP Watchara Phetthong has demanded a seven-day deadline for Surat Thani authorities to investigate allegations of foreign nationals illegally operating businesses reserved for Thai citizens.
Former Democrat Party MP Watchara Phetthong has officially petitioned the Governor of Surat Thani, calling for an urgent crackdown on foreign nationals allegedly operating businesses in violation of Thai law. According to a report by Thai Post, Watchara claims that numerous foreigners are masquerading as business owners, effectively displacing local Thai workers in various sectors. He further alleged that some state officials may be complicit by accepting bribes to facilitate these illegal operations. Watchara has set a seven-day deadline for provincial authorities to address these grievances and clear the area of such illicit activities. In response, the Deputy Governor of Surat Thani and the provincial employment office have formally accepted the petition. They have committed to launching an immediate investigation and conducting site visits to identify and prosecute any individuals found to be in violation of labor and business regulations. For residents and visitors, this situation highlights potential upcoming inspections and stricter enforcement of business ownership laws in the region. While the authorities have acknowledged the complaint and promised action, the extent of the alleged corruption and the specific businesses targeted remain to be confirmed through the official investigation process.
