Author Archives: Dr. Paul Crosio

Kratom

Thailand’s Kratom Regulations: A Comprehensive Overview (2026)

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree indigenous to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, where its leaves have been used in traditional practices for centuries. In Thailand and neighboring regions, fresh or dried leaves are commonly chewed, brewed as tea, or … Read More

A Critical Examination of Freehold and Leasehold Condominium Ownership for Foreign Nationals

The intersection of foreign property ownership and succession rights in Thailand presents a complex legal landscape. For the foreign investor or retiree seeking to acquire a condominium in the Kingdom, the distinction between freehold and leasehold tenure is not merely … Read More

Regulation of Short-Term Condominium Rentals in Thailand

Thailand has witnessed a fundamental shift in travellers’ accommodation preferences, driven largely by digital platforms such as Airbnb. This evolution has led many condominium owners to attempt to profit from the demand for short-term stays, effectively transforming residential units into … Read More

Directors’ Liability in Corporate Insolvency: A Primer for Foreign and Thai Directors

In Thailand, the intersection of corporate insolvency and director liability raises critical questions for company leaders. While the law does not impose a duty on directors to commence formal insolvency proceedings, it does create potential liabilities for failing to address … Read More

The Koh Samui Building Permit Fraud Scandal: Legal Implications and Remedial Pathways for Affected Property Owners

Introduction In March 2026, authorities in Surat Thani province uncovered a sophisticated criminal operation involving the forgery of construction permits issued by Koh Samui Municipality, sending shockwaves through Thailand’s luxury real estate market and raising profound legal questions for property … Read More

Thailand’s Updated Bankruptcy Law: Prepackaged Bankruptcy Options

Thailand’s proposed pre-packaged bankruptcy reforms mark a major evolution in its insolvency regime. By allowing debtor–creditor agreements before court filing, the new framework aims to streamline rehabilitation, reduce timelines, and align Thailand with international restructuring practices. … Read More

Thailand’s 3 Million Baht Investment Visa: A Potential Long-Term Stay Pathway – awaiting regulations

Thailand’s proposed 3-million-baht investment visa could create a new pathway for long-term stay through property investment. But with key regulations and certification procedures still unpublished, the program remains unavailable for now. … Read More

Thailand Intensifies Crackdown on Nominee Shareholders

A nominee shareholder arrangement occurs when a Thai national holds shares in a company on behalf of a foreigner in order to circumvent foreign ownership restrictions under the Foreign Business Act. Such arrangements are illegal under Sections 36 and 37 of the Act and can result in criminal penalties for both the Thai nominee and the foreign beneficiary. … Read More

Thailand Proposes Landmark Reforms to Foreign Business Act to Attract Investment

Thailand is considering significant reforms to the Foreign Business Act that could remove licensing requirements for several service industries. The proposed changes may make it easier for foreign investors to operate software development, treasury centre and intra-group management businesses in Thailand without obtaining a Foreign Business License. … Read More

The End of the Filing Formality: Thailand’s New Front in Registration Scrutiny – Key Changes for Foreign Investors in 2026

For many years, the incorporation of Thai companies was regarded primarily as a routine compliance exercise. While Thai law has long prohibited nominee arrangements under the Foreign Business Act (FBA) and related legislation, substantive scrutiny of ownership structures often occurred … Read More