Chinese Investors Transform Hundreds of Rai into Durian Plantations in Thailand
PUBLISHED: 27 Feb 2025 at 18:22
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has mandated the confiscation of 1,500 rai of forest land in Tha Takiab district, Chachoengsao province. This land was sold illegally to a Thai company representing a group of Chinese investors.
Currently, approximately 450 rai of the confiscated land has been converted into a durian plantation reportedly owned by these investors.
The remaining plots are being readied for similar agricultural development, with essential utilities such as electricity and water already installed, along with infrastructure like an office building.
In response, the ministry has directed the Natural Resources and Environment Office in Chachoengsao to initiate legal proceedings against the purchasing company, and plans to transform the confiscated land into a community forest, according to a ministry spokesperson.
All seized plots fall within two forest reserves, Khaeo Rabom and Si Yat. Some pieces have been allocated to landless villagers, while others are being subdivided for community use.
Legal action will also be taken against villagers who unlawfully sold the land, leading to a permanent blacklist from government land allocations, officials noted.
Since these forest plots lack title deeds, their sale is illegal under current laws.
Authorities stressed that offenders in any forest reserve will face similar repercussions. “Anyone involved in the sale of such land will face legal consequences and lose their rights to it,” officials stated.
Local officials are aware of the illegal transactions, with many village leaders recognizing that villagers sold land to the Thai company.
Concerns were raised over the awareness and actions of village headmen regarding their authority under the Forest Act, leading to fears of repercussions from more powerful individuals.
