AOT's CEO Paveena Jirayuttitpong is pushing to reinstate inbound duty-free shops at 5 Thai airports that were closed in August 2024 following a cabinet resolution. The removal has triggered 90% passenger complaints and harmed Skytrax airport rankings, a key competitiveness metric. AOT is seeking formal clearance from the Office of Fiscal Policy (OFP) after an informal nod in February 2026, arguing duty-free shops are a core service standard for major global airports and help recapture spending that currently flows overseas. The company is also negotiating with King Power, which holds existing concession rights.