Phuket: Deputy Interior Minister Polpeera Suwannachawi has announced significant strides in the crackdown on nominee businesses in Phuket, with legal proceedings initiated in 39 cases.
According to Thai News Agency, Polpeera Suwannachawi detailed the actions taken against companies that were found to be operating under nominee arrangements. He stated that 159 such companies have been identified and are currently under investigation by the committee tasked with overseeing these issues.
The Deputy Minister further explained that legal action has already been taken against 39 companies, resulting in the enforced sale of 34 of them. Additionally, approximately 200 more companies are slated for further investigation, marking a robust effort to regulate tourism businesses in the region. Polpeera Suwannachawi also mentioned that a press conference with the Department of Land is expected soon, and he, along with Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liengprasit, plans to visit Phuket again in about two weeks to assess the situation further.
In an effort to streamline operations and reduce issues related to thugs and bribery, Polpeera Suwannachawi emphasized the expedited process for issuing hotel business licenses in Phuket. Previously, the province could issue 40 hotel certificates annually, but recent changes have increased this capacity, allowing for 45 licenses to be issued within the same timeframe. This new process demonstrates a commitment to legal operation support, aiming to eliminate corruption and reassure businesses wishing to operate honestly in the region.