PATTAYA, Thailand – A spokesperson for the Senate’s military and national security committee has raised concerns over what he described as emerging security risks linked to foreign land ownership and business activity in several of Thailand’s major tourist destinations.
Chaiyong Maneerungsakul called on agencies including the National Security Council of Thailand and the Internal Security Operations Command to clarify the facts and outline measures to address the situation.
According to the statement, the concerns focus on reports of foreign nationals allegedly acquiring land through nominee arrangements and expanding business operations in areas such as Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Samui, Phuket, and parts of northern Thailand including Pai and Chiang Mai.
The spokesperson also referenced unverified reports of similar activity in southern border provinces, raising concerns about potential social tensions in sensitive areas.
However, no official data was presented to confirm the scale of land ownership or the number of individuals involved. Thai law generally restricts foreign ownership of land, though legal structures such as long-term leases and company ownership can be used under certain conditions.
The committee is expected to gather further information and invite relevant agencies—including immigration authorities and police—to provide clarification on the extent of foreign investment, compliance with existing laws, and any necessary regulatory responses.
Officials have not yet issued formal findings, and the matter remains under review.
