Thailand Deputy PM proposes firearms law reforms

Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapan has announced plans to discuss amending the Firearms Act of B.E. 2490 (1947) with the Department of Provincial Administration and the Council of State. The proposed reforms aim to modernize the outdated analog system by implementing a comprehensive digital tracking system that monitors firearms from importation through sale and ownership.

Key proposals include requiring firearm licenses to be renewed every three years, similar to driver's licenses, and tightening controls on the transfer of weapons to prevent illegal pawning. The initiative also seeks to address the imbalance between the number of firearms and ammunition in circulation, as well as increasing oversight for shooting ranges. Because legislative amendments can be time-consuming, the government may issue ministerial regulations to implement stricter measures more quickly.