On June 24, 2025, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra unveiled a comprehensive set of measures aimed at curbing transnational and technological crime, particularly those involving cross-border activities between Thailand and Cambodia. The move comes amid rising concern over illicit networks operating across the region, with the United Nations estimating annual damages exceeding 600 billion baht from such crimes in Cambodia alone.
The government’s multipronged strategy will focus on bolstering border security, targeting cyber-enabled financial crimes, and increasing regional and international cooperation.
Key Policy Measures
Border Security:
Seven major checkpoints along the Thai-Cambodian border will see heightened security protocols, including limited operating hours and restrictions on both individuals and vehicles. Exceptions will be made for students and medical emergencies. The government has also banned foreign tourists from engaging in gambling in border areas, while flights to destinations such as Siem Reap, often associated with gambling travel, will be subjected to greater scrutiny.
Combating Technological Crime:
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), working through its Anti-Online Crime (AOC) Center, will launch intensive probes into mule accounts and cross-border financial flows. As part of this crackdown, internet infrastructure—particularly undersea cables linked to Cambodian military or security entities—may be suspended. In tandem, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) will pursue sanctions, freeze overseas assets, and collaborate in tracing funds tied to criminal networks.
Trade and Commerce Measures:
Exports suspected of supporting criminal enterprises will be suspended. This includes a possible halt to the export of fuel oil to Cambodia if it is found to be used in illegal operations. Additionally, the Ministry of Commerce will roll out support mechanisms for farmers and small businesses impacted by trade disruptions, encouraging both public and private sectors to assist with product purchases.
Regional Cooperation:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with coordinating international efforts to dismantle technological crime networks, with Thailand positioning itself as a potential regional center for joint operations.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn set a three-month implementation window, during which authorities aim to show measurable declines in crime rates, financial losses, and successful prosecutions.
In her remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and swift resolution, noting that border control decisions may be delegated to the military to allow real-time responses to evolving conditions.
She also addressed concerns over Thai businesses operating in Cambodia, stating that no incidents of violence had been reported and most enterprises, particularly hotels in urban centers, remain unaffected. If tensions escalate, however, Cambodia’s earlier decision to reject Thai oil imports could result in rising fuel costs for Cambodian consumers.
