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Thailand has long faced challenges related to economic crime. According to Sutthi Sookying of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), the nation has encountered various forms of financial misconduct over the decades. Economic crises, notably in 1979 and 1997, were partly linked to fraudulent activities within banks and stock markets. Additional ongoing concerns include drug trafficking, money laundering, underground banking, fraud against the public, and corruption. Tax evasion and procurement fraud within government projects also remain persistent issues.
Although new legislation and dedicated agencies have improved oversight in areas such as corruption and money laundering, enforcement remains uneven. Some high-profile cases and corporate wrongdoers have historically avoided prosecution, highlighting structural limitations in the judicial system. Reports from PwC Thailand indicate that economic crime incidence may appear lower today (33% of companies reported fraud in 2023 versus 48% in 2018) though reduced reporting could reflect insufficient internal corporate safeguards rather than a true decline in criminal activity.
Economic crimes present significant risks for companies operating in Thailand. Fraud can disrupt normal operations, erode stakeholder trust, and create financial loss. Industries such as personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturing, including gloves and masks, have been notably affected. Without robust preventive strategies by both businesses and regulatory authorities, these crimes continue to challenge market integrity and operational stability.
Beyond economic misconduct, Thailand grapples with corruption, drug trafficking, and abuse. To mitigate risks, the country has established 3,000–4,000 security firms employing nearly half a million personnel. Crime is often concentrated in tourist-heavy regions, which also serve as hubs for human trafficking and illicit commercial activities. Cities like Bangkok and Phuket experience higher rates of drug abuse and smuggling, particularly along northern border routes.
International organizations, including the United Nations, support initiatives aimed at reducing crime. Efforts include combating violent offenses, promoting sustainable land use, and strengthening institutions such as the Anti-Money Laundering Office, which form core components of Thailand’s law enforcement priorities.
Fraud remains widespread, particularly in regions with high tourist traffic. Unscrupulous travel operators and service providers have engaged in white-collar and property-related scams. Notably, investigations following the Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 incident uncovered cases involving misuse of stolen visa documentation to cross Thai borders, highlighting the complex interplay between tourism and criminal activity.
Thailand has historically served as a destination for foreign fugitives seeking to evade prosecution in other countries. These groups engage in a range of offenses, from petty theft and identity fraud to minor criminal schemes, representing ongoing challenges for law enforcement.
BASE Law Firm offers extensive experience in handling economic crime cases, particularly for corporations navigating fraud, corruption, or other financial offenses. Proactive risk management and preventive measures are crucial for protecting business operations.
Companies seeking to identify vulnerabilities, mitigate risks, or respond to criminal threats can rely on professional legal guidance. BASE Law Firm provides comprehensive support, ensuring that organizations are equipped to prevent, address, and resolve issues related to economic crime efficiently and effectively.
