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Bolt confirms continued operations in Thailand amid platform review

Bolt confirms continued operations in Thailand amid platform review

PHUKET: Ride-hailing company Bolt has confirmed it will continue operating in Thailand while its electronic platform certification remains under review by regulators.

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By The Phuket News

Tuesday 12 May 2026 01:21 PM


Photo: Bolt Thailand

Photo: Bolt Thailand

In a statement issued on Saturday (May 9), Bolt said company representatives recently met with relevant regulatory authorities to provide updates on efforts to improve standards for app-based ride-hailing services in Thailand.

The discussions focused on promoting fair competition within the industry while strengthening passenger safety standards, the company said.

Bolt stated that, following what it described as constructive discussions with government stakeholders, it received recommendations to further improve its services. The company confirmed passengers across Thailand could continue using the platform as normal during the certification review process.

Bolt also reaffirmed its commitment to operating under what it called fair and equal regulatory standards to support the long-term growth of Thailand’s ride-hailing sector.

As part of the update, the company outlined several safety measures currently being implemented on the platform, including enhanced driver selfie verification using facial recognition technology to help prevent driver impersonation. Bolt said verification checks would now occur more frequently through shorter verification windows.

The company also said it had strengthened its zero-tolerance policy against account sharing and impersonation, with drivers found violating the policy facing permanent removal from the platform.

Bolt added that it continues supporting drivers in obtaining public driving licences and public vehicle registrations, known in Thailand as RY.17 and RY.18 permits, to help ensure compliance with Thai transport regulations.

The company also referred to an incident involving a passenger in late April, stating that it had provided support to the affected individual, including medical treatment coverage and mental health assistance.

Nathadon Suksiritarnan, General Manager of Bolt Thailand, said safety remained the company’s highest priority alongside maintaining a fair and competitive transport ecosystem.

“We remain committed to serving passengers in Thailand while continuously improving a transparent and reliable platform,” he said.

Bolt said it would continue working closely with Thai authorities to support the country’s digital economy and transportation safety standards.