BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Business Development (DBD), Ministry of Commerce, has upgraded its digital company registration system, DBD Biz Regist, to a “2-in-1” platform that allows entrepreneurs to register businesses easily while simultaneously blocking high-risk individuals listed under HR03 from registering. The move aims to prevent the creation of shell companies and misuse of corporate entities for fraud.
Ms. Oramon Saptaweetham, Director-General of DBD, explained that the system enhancement is part of Thailand’s effort to raise corporate governance standards. “This 2-in-1 service allows for the establishment of legal entities while ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of corporate status for fraudulent purposes, such as shell company accounts or foreign nominee schemes,” she said.
The upgraded DBD Biz Regist incorporates strict identity verification measures using government databases, the ThaiD app, and civil registry records to ensure that applicants are genuine individuals. It also cross-references the HR03 high-risk list, which includes people previously involved in shell company schemes, significantly reducing the chance that high-risk individuals can register entities for illicit purposes.
All registrations are conducted digitally, creating a complete digital footprint that allows authorities to track applicants, submission times, and fee payments. This transparency helps detect irregular or suspicious transactions efficiently.
The system not only makes company registration faster, simpler, and cheaper for legitimate entrepreneurs, but it also strengthens corporate governance and protects Thailand’s economy from fraud. By preventing misuse of corporate entities, DBD aims to reduce economic risk and enhance the country’s long-term business competitiveness.
