China responds to Thailand’s crackdown on grey businesses by reaffirming support

China is responding to Thailand’s crackdown on grey businesses by reaffirming its support. The two countries say they have been cooperating closely in suppressing transnational crimes.

The Chinese Embassy pledged to help bring such businesses to justice on its Facebook page today.

Online gambling and call centre scams are among the Chinese businesses that were found to be illegally operating in Thailand.

According to Thai PBS World, the statement came in response to the increasing media coverage of Chinese grey businesses in Thailand.

The embassy noted that the Chinese government has urged all Chinese people and enterprises abroad to strictly follow the laws and traditions of their host countries.

The embassy credited Chinese enterprises with contributing immensely to charitable enterprises and economic development in Thailand. And, it emphasised that only a small number of Chinese businessmen are involved in illegal activities in Thailand.

It furthered that it would be unreasonable to blame the misconduct of a few on the many. The embassy also warned of an “influential third hand,” which it says is trying to ruin the reputation of China and undermine the two countries’ friendly relationship.

Meanwhile, Thailand is strengthening its tourism ties with China after the two countries inked a letter of intent in a high-profile meeting.

Chinese Culture and Tourism Minister, Hu Heping, and Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, signed the Letter of Intent between the TAT and China Tourism Group Travel Services.

As 2023 marks 48 years of diplomacy between the two countries, it also marks 17 years of cooperation between their tourism sectors.

As Thailand has the largest Chinatown in the world, it is one of five countries that holds the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of China.

The TAT and China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Chinese Embassy in Thailand say they already have plans underway for the Chinese New Year.