PHUKET, Thailand – Phuket residents, business operators and community leaders are planning a peaceful rally on Friday, Aug. 28, to call for stronger enforcement of Thai laws governing foreign property ownership and business operations.
The planned demonstration follows concerns over social media promotions encouraging Israelis to relocate to Thailand’s major tourist destinations, with advertisements offering enclave-style living, real estate and assistance with property acquisition.
Some promotional material targets prospective buyers with luxury developments and property ownership services. One condominium project in Pattaya is marketed with six-star amenities, including an on-site synagogue and kosher dining, while a 48-unit ocean-view development in Rawai, Phuket, advertises prices starting at 410,000 shekels (US$138,000).
Of particular concern to local residents are claims that the services include assistance with paperwork allowing foreigners to acquire land and property, despite Thai laws restricting direct foreign ownership of land.
A review of corporate registry records has also raised questions about the ownership structure of the Rawai development. Corporate filings showed a 51% Thai and 49% foreign ownership split between 2023 and 2025. More recently, the company structure was changed to show 100% Thai ownership, prompting concerns over whether Thai nominees could be holding shares on behalf of foreign investors.
Local business operators have also alleged the emergence of an end-to-end business network covering immigration consulting, legal services, real estate sales and company registration, which they say could allow foreign investors to operate outside the intended framework of the Thai economy.
Tensions have reportedly increased amid allegations involving disrespect for local laws and culture, verbal abuse, unpaid bills and threats against Thai business operators.
The Protect Phuket Coalition, made up of local residents, business owners and community leaders, plans to gather at Patong Beach on Friday to urge authorities to take action against foreigners and businesses suspected of violating Thai law.
The group is also calling for authorities to examine property ownership and title arrangements involving Chabad centres, Jewish community and religious facilities, across Thailand, including existing and proposed centres in Patong and Rawai. Residents have also raised questions about a large Chabad facility under construction in Bangkok, which reportedly includes three underground levels.
With more than 10 Chabad centres operating nationwide, together with the promotion of foreign-oriented residential developments, some residents fear the expansion of foreign enclaves could affect local communities and economic interests.
The Aug. 28 rally aims to pressure the government to strengthen enforcement of foreign property ownership laws, investigate suspected nominee arrangements and protect the interests of local residents and businesses. (TNA)
