Thai Revenue Department Raids 600 Firms Over Tax Evasion
Thai authorities raided three Bangkok locations with eight agencies, uncovering around 600 companies possibly underpaying taxes linked to foreigners who obtained Thai citizenship. Officials warned that intentional tax evasion is a criminal offense punishable by up to seven years in prison. A hotline 1161 has been opened for the public to report tips.
The Revenue Department coordinated with eight agencies including the Department of Special Investigation, the Department of Business Development, the Department of Employment, the Immigration Bureau, the Land Department, the Anti-Money Laundering Office, and the Special Branch Police. They simultaneously inspected three sites in Bangkok linked to businesses where foreigners had acquired Thai citizenship. Preliminary checks revealed about 600 companies that may have failed to pay taxes fully. Authorities stressed that all entrepreneurs, Thai or foreign, must obey tax regulations; deliberate tax avoidance is a criminal offense punishable by three months to seven years imprisonment and fines ranging from 2,000 to 200,000 baht. The public can report leads via hotline 1161 or the Revenue Department’s website, with whistle‑blower protection guaranteed.
