• 3,000 firms
  • Independent
  • Trusted
Save up to 70% on staff

News » Thailand, China to launch hub to fight scam call centers

Thailand, China to launch hub to fight scam call centers

thailand-china-fight-scam-call-centers
Photo from AFP/Getty Images

BANGKOK, THAILAND — Thailand and China are intensifying their collaboration to dismantle scam call networks proliferating in Southeast Asia, particularly along Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia. 

A new coordination center will be established at Thailand’s national police headquarters in Bangkok, with another planned for Mae Sot, a district bordering Myanmar’s Myawaddy—a known hub for these operations.

The centers aim to combat telecom and online fraud schemes often run by trafficked workers. According to the United Nations, hundreds of thousands of people have been forced into scam operations across the region since the pandemic. Thai police confirmed that the Bangkok-based center will begin operations by February 2025.

“This center will work together [with China] to investigate and combat call center gangs based in Myawaddy, Myanmar, and along the Cambodian border,” Thai police said in a statement.

Human trafficking fuels scam networks

The rise of scam call centers is closely tied to human trafficking. Victims are often lured with false promises of high-paying jobs and then coerced into fraudulent activities under harsh conditions. 

Myanmar alone has deported over 53,000 Chinese nationals from scam compounds since 2023, according to reports.

China has also stepped up its efforts following high-profile cases like the abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was trafficked into a scam syndicate in Myawaddy before being rescued. The incident has drawn significant public attention to the issue.

Regional collaboration gains momentum

The initiative comes amid broader regional efforts to combat transnational crime. Earlier this month, officials from China, Myanmar, and Thailand met in Kunming to reach a consensus on eradicating telecom fraud centers in Myanmar. ASEAN member states are also prioritizing anti-scam measures, as highlighted during recent discussions by Aseanapol.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Weak governance in some areas allows scam networks to thrive, generating billions annually for organized crime groups. Experts emphasize the need for sustained international cooperation to disrupt these operations and provide justice for victims.

A step forward against organized crime

The Thailand-China coordination centers mark a significant step in addressing the growing threat of cross-border scams. By targeting criminal syndicates and rescuing trafficked individuals, authorities hope to dismantle these networks while ensuring greater regional security. 

However, experts warn that long-term success will require ongoing collaboration and systemic reforms across Southeast Asia.

Read more here.

Start your
journey today

  • Independent
  • Free
  • Transparent

About OA

Outsource Accelerator is the trusted source of independent information, advisory and expert implementation of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)

The #1 outsourcing authority

Outsource Accelerator offers the world’s leading aggregator marketplace for outsourcing. It specifically provides the conduit between Philippines outsourcing suppliers and the businesses – clients – across the globe.

The Outsource Accelerator website has over 5,000 articles, 450+ podcast episodes, and a comprehensive directory with 4000+ BPO companies… all designed to make it easier for clients to learn about – and engage with – outsourcing.

About Derek Gallimore

Derek Gallimore has been in business for 20 years, outsourcing for over eight years, and has been living in Manila (the heart of global outsourcing) since 2014. Derek is the founder and CEO of Outsource Accelerator, and is regarded as a leading expert on all things outsourcing.

“Excellent service for outsourcing advice and expertise for my business.”

Learn more
Banner Image
Get 3 Free Quotes Verified Outsourcing Suppliers
3,000 firms.Just 2 minutes to complete.
SAVE UP TO
70% ON STAFF COSTS
Learn more

Connect with over 3,000 outsourcing services providers.

Banner Image

Transform your business with skilled offshore talent.

  • 3,000 firms
  • Simple
  • Transparent
Banner Image