Thailand Roundup: Fake tour guide arrested, Thailand-U.S. investments, tourism advancement
Illegal employment scheme
Thai police have cracked down on a network that helped foreigners, mostly Russians, stay in Thailand illegally by using company nominees or shell companies. A Russian woman and a Thai woman were involved in operating the scheme, with a sharp increase in customers since 2022. A total of 98 foreigners and 37 Thais have been accused of offenses related to the network. ABC News reports that the crackdown has revealed a significant increase in the number of Russians arriving and registering companies in Phuket since 2019.
Fake tour guide arrested
A British man has been arrested in Koh Pha Ngan for posing as a tour guide and charging foreign tourists 70,000 baht ($1,907) each. According to Asean Now, he was found leading groups of tourists around the island without authorisation and working without a legal permit. The arrest highlights the crackdown on unlicensed tour operators in Thailand.
Thai women’s national volleyball
The Thai women's national volleyball team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over France in the Volleyball Nations League. The Nation reports that after winning the first two sets, France made a comeback, but Thailand ultimately won the deciding set. This win moved them up to 11th place in the group. Their next match is against China on Saturday.
Tourism advancement
Thailand's government aims to improve its ranking in the tourism development index by upgrading infrastructure and services for tourists. Plans include expanding visa-free stays and increasing revenue from tourism. However, there are concerns that longer stays may lead to illegal work and a need for better tracking of tourists. The government is also urged to boost domestic tourism in the low season, Bangkok Post reports.
US-Thai Investments
Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has assured US investors that the country is open for investment under enhanced policies. Bernama reports that the Prime Minister highlighted the potential for collaboration between the two countries and emphasised opportunities in logistics, aviation, digital, future mobility, and tourism. Thailand is ready to welcome US investment.
