Ms. Supachai Suthammanat, Minister of Commerce, presided over the opening of the event "Campaign to Unite Forces Against Nominees and Front Accounts, Strengthening Thai Accountants’ Awareness of Illegal Businesses (Professional Skepticism of Illegal Businesses)." The event was attended by Mr. Wuttikrai Leewirapant, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce; Mr. Poonphong Nainapakon, Director-General of the Department of Business Development; executives from the Ministry of Commerce; accounting professionals; accounting offices; professional associations; and 17 partner agencies from both the public and private sectors, totaling over 1,625 participants.
Ms. Supachai stated that the system of front accounts and nominees causes significant harm to the country. Without cooperation from all parties and proper awareness, this problem will never be eradicated. Losses and damages affect everyone and are not distant issues. Partner agencies, accounting professional associations, accounting businesses, and accountants across the country are key in issuing warnings and prevention. From now on, cooperation is essential because knowledge alone is insufficient. Accountants are the primary line of defense to intercept and reduce these problems at the source. This is not a minor issue but one that poses economic and social risks. If everyone understands their roles and works together seriously, it is believed that the use of front accounts and nominees in non-transparent business practices can be prevented.
Ms. Supachai also noted that lessons learned from the past show that criminals continually evolve their methods. Therefore, all sectors must also develop and stay informed. This knowledge enhancement initiative is only the beginning, not the end. It is necessary to continue efforts to stay vigilant and protective.
The Ministry of Commerce, through the Department of Business Development as the lead agency, has partnered with allied agencies to prepare a New Year's 'gift' for criminals through four stringent orders and two announcements aimed at closing loopholes from the outset. Measures include using data from over 13 million state welfare cardholders and more than 90,000 front account names to screen business registration applications. For companies registering with duplicate addresses, representatives will be invited to verify their identities and provide explanations. This will serve as a warning to criminals, making it clear not to engage in illicit activities in Thailand.
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