The Thai government announced plans to force the sale of up to 2,300 land plots valued at more than 14 billion baht (approximately RM1.7 billion) as part of a crackdown on properties held unlawfully by foreigners through local proxies. The move aims to reinforce existing laws prohibiting foreign ownership of land in Thailand.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called for stricter enforcement against the use of Thai nationals as frontmen to bypass the country’s land ownership restrictions. The Department of Lands has identified 2,360 plots worth around 14.01 billion baht, spread across 5,467 rai (about 875 hectares), registered under 1,397 proxy owners, according to Department Director Somchai Leelanoi.

The government has pledged to expedite forced sales where illegal ownership is confirmed and pursue both civil and criminal legal actions against offenders. A government statement noted that investigations will go beyond registered title holders or company shareholders to uncover the true beneficiaries and decision-makers behind the transactions.

Thailand’s property market, particularly in tourist destinations such as Phuket, has faced growing public concern amid reports of foreigners acquiring land illegally. Tourism contributes significantly to the Thai economy, accounting for 12.6% of gross domestic product last year and expected to approach 20% by 2036, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. However, the sector has encountered increasing scrutiny over visitor conduct and the impact of foreign property investments.

Under Thai law, foreign nationals and companies are generally prohibited from owning land unless granted special approval by the Board of Investment. Companies can purchase land if a majority of shares are held by Thai citizens. Anutin emphasized that Thailand remains open to legitimate foreign investments that comply with the law and investment promotion rules, underscoring the government’s commitment to transparency and legality in land ownership.

The crackdown reflects ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to address longstanding concerns over land ownership fraud and ensure compliance with regulations designed to protect national assets.