Illegal tours targeting foreign markets are spreading rapidly in Thailand, prompting the Tourism Department to prepare for more inspections of tour companies this year. Atta recently discovered unlicensed companies conducting tours that target Indian tourists. Others open tour companies as a front for money laundering from grey businesses, said Mr Vathanachai. According to the Tourism Department, 2,275 tour companies were inspected last year, with 84 found to be illegal. Department staff collaborate with the Tourist Police to monitor illegal tours in major tourist cities.
