The government has intensified its crackdown on foreign nominee shareholding structures and suspected money laundering activities, introducing tighter legal controls, widening the scope of investigations and enhancing data exchange between state bodies.
Speaking on Sunday, Prime Minister’s Office spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the latest measures build on earlier initiatives implemented under the “Quick Big Win” policy, which has already contributed to a decline in illicit nominee business activity.
The policy prioritises rapid enforcement and tangible outcomes, targeting practices viewed as detrimental to Thailand’s commercial landscape, particularly the use of Thai nationals as proxies by foreign operators.
Since January 1, businesses deemed at risk of engaging in nominee arrangements have been required to provide additional financial documentation prior to registration.
As a result, the number of such firms fell by 60% in the first quarter of 2026, dropping to 1,373 from 3,511 during the same period last year, according to Ms Rachada.
A further reduction followed the implementation of stricter investment verification rules on April 1. Between April 1 and 23, authorities flagged 175 high-risk companies, representing a 75% decrease from 658 recorded a year earlier.
Ms Rachada said the next phase of enforcement will centre on three key areas: deeper investigations into nominee networks, coordinated on-site inspections supported by integrated data systems, and closer scrutiny of foreign-controlled entities suspected of breaching Thai law.
Between October 1 last year and April 23, officials identified 11 high-risk groups linked to more than 300 registered entities. The findings have been forwarded to the Central Investigation Bureau for further investigation and potential legal proceedings.
Authorities have also conducted inspections at 27 sites across 10 provinces, with the results shared among nine agencies for follow-up action.
In total, 4,372 companies with foreign links have been examined, with evidence currently being compiled to support further enforcement measures.
Ms Rachada added that the government is preparing to formalise closer cooperation among 21 state agencies through an agreement set to be signed on April 29 at Government House.
The agreement aims to strengthen data-sharing mechanisms, establish joint monitoring frameworks and reinforce legal action against so-called grey businesses, while also boosting confidence among foreign investors operating in compliance with Thai regulations.
