UK-Thailand step up cannabis border controls and enforcement

10 Sept 15:29 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand and the UK have intensified their partnership to combat a significant increase in cannabis smuggling from Thailand, especially to the UK, since Thailand's 2022 decriminalization.
Thailand has implemented tougher penalties, effective June 17, imposing a 30,000 baht per kilogram fine for cannabis smugglers to deter repeat offenses and address exploitation of regulations.
The surge in smuggling is driven by high profit margins, with cannabis prices overseas being 40 times higher than in Thailand, leading to a 464% increase in UK arrests in a single year.
Both nations are enhancing border controls and law enforcement cooperation to increase the risk of detection and disrupt transnational crime groups exploiting these price disparities.
Amidst the smuggling crisis, Thailand's Public Health Ministry is drafting new legislation to restrict cannabis use solely to medical purposes, signaling a significant policy shift.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.