TPC vows to uphold strict screening

Thailand Privilege Card to discuss easing impact of new tax measures affecting long-stay foreigners

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

Thailand Privilege Card (TPC) has pledged not to allow individuals with suspicious backgrounds or links to grey businesses to use its membership as a cover, and is preparing to discuss with the government ways to mitigate the impact of new tax measures on long-stay foreigners with overseas income.

Thailand’s long-stay market is unlikely to be affected by “unsafe tourism” as TPC targets membership growth of 10-20% this year, said president Manatase Annawat.

The operator of the card noted the company has adopted strict screening measures to prevent criminals and those with suspicious backgrounds from becoming members, he said.

The process has been reviewed by consulates, the Immigration Bureau, the Central Investigation Bureau and Interpol.

For individuals who changed their nationality, an additional screening process with the Anti-Money Laundering Office is scheduled to be introduced to examine the source of their funds.

If TPC receives a summons or subpoena indicating that a member may have engaged in illegal activities, it plans to terminate the membership immediately, said Mr Manatase.