Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, an MP of the Prachachon Party and Chairman of the House of Representatives' Committee on State Security, has urged the Thai government to address issues related to Chinese businesses renting out condos and housing estates in Thailand. The appeal follows numerous public complaints that these properties are being transformed into hotels.
According to Thai News Agency, Rangsiman emphasized the need for legal action and the implementation of measures to prevent the development of new projects predominantly leased by Chinese nationals. He highlighted that complaints have been lodged regarding the significant ownership percentages of Chinese individuals in certain projects, with some reportedly having 80% of their ownership in Chinese hands. Rangsiman expressed concerns over the potential social unrest this situation might cause, particularly affecting the local residents' quality of life. He stressed the importance of government intervention in managing this issue rather than leaving it to resolve itself.
Rangsiman pointed out that while he refrained from naming specific companies, only a few are involved in targeting foreign customers, which raises the risk of these properties being converted into hotel businesses. He outlined two critical actions for the government: firstly, engaging in dialogue with companies selling new projects to establish proactive measures, including potential legal or regulatory amendments; and secondly, enforcing existing laws on properties already sold with foreign rental conditions to prevent their misuse as hotel-like accommodations.