Thailand Tightens Control on 10 Million Firearms, Proposes 3-Year Gun Licenses

Firearm control in Thailand is set to face stricter enforcement after top officials highlighted the alarming number of registered weapons in the country and initiated comprehensive regulatory reforms. Public figures and politicians possessing firearms will face thorough asset declarations, ensuring adherence to strict legal standards and ethical requirements for officeholders.

According to cabinet resolutions from August 11, the issuance of Form Por.3 permits has been suspended, meaning no new gun purchases are authorized until further notice. Officials revealed that Thailand currently accounts for approximately 10 million firearms while the total national population stands at roughly 70 million, prompting urgent calls for systemic restructuring and tighter domestic security.

Addressing previous controversies regarding home defense and firearm usage, the Prime Minister clarified his stance, explaining that the primary intention is to urge citizens to stay away from weapons because they invariably lead to tragic outcomes. Those who use firearms often face lengthy court battles to prove self-defense, while victims suffer severe injuries or death. Public representatives are expected to lead by example in strictly obeying the law.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

“My communication may have been a bit brief, but the purpose and intention are that I do not want any of us to be near firearms because they never bring anything good to either the victim or the user.”

The Prime Minister

Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapan outlined the framework for amending the historic 1947 Firearms and Ammunition Act, noting that the outdated analog control systems are inadequate for modern challenges. The government is collaborating with the Department of Provincial Administration and the Council of State to design an updated, rigorous digital framework. Under the proposed changes, gun licenses will expire after three years rather than remaining valid indefinitely, and illegal practices such as pawning registered firearms will face severe crackdowns. Authorities also noted a disproportionate amount of ammunition relative to registered firearms, with some owners possessing up to 40 rounds per weapon, requiring immediate regulatory adjustments.