Showing 1 - 10 of 15
Phuket up in arms on long‑stay visa
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 18/02/2026
» Phuket tourism operators oppose the government's policy allowing foreigners who buy real estate worth 3 million baht to qualify for a long‑stay visa, arguing the investment threshold is too low and could attract "non‑quality" visitors who may engage in illegal activities, as well as risking an increase in property prices, making housing less affordable for local residents.
Council sees tourism as key driver of GDP
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 17/02/2026
» The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) expects the tourism industry to be a major driver of GDP growth this year as flights and arrivals continue to rebound, though rising untaxed online travel agents and illegal foreign operators continue to limit the full benefits of the rebound.
Strong baht may crimp bookings
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 22/01/2026
» With the baht strengthening against the US dollar, surpassing 31 to the greenback for the first time in almost five years, it should impact forward bookings for the next few months and during the low season, discouraging tourist spending.
Phuket upbeat on high season outlook
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 02/12/2025
» Phuket tourism operators anticipate this high season running through the first quarter of 2026 will deliver the strongest performance in five years, driven by increased tourist spending, longer stays and the introduction of new long-haul flights to southern Thailand.
Phuket unfazed by threats against Israelis
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 05/12/2024
» Israel's warning of a terrorist threat against Israeli citizens in the region should not impact Phuket, a popular destination for Israeli tourists, as safety and security measures have been tightened, according to the Phuket Tourist Association (PTA).
Phuket tourism operators fret over climate change
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 12/10/2024
» Phuket tourism operators are worried about the impact of climate change, resulting in severe weather and flooding in Thailand as well as tourist source markets.
Tourism operators seek long-term flood plan
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 27/08/2024
» Regional tourism operators have called for a long-term plan to manage floods and storms to prevent possible damage to tourism and the economy, following the floods in northern provinces and a deadly landslide in Phuket.
Slow upgrade hampers Phuket
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 03/07/2024
» Slow infrastructure development in Phuket, which is unable to cope with rapid urbanisation and severe floods caused by heavy rainfall, is damaging its reputation as the government has not allocated budget or upgraded public facilities as promised.
Call for longer Phuket nightlife hours
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 28/10/2023
» Phuket tourism operators have asked the government to extend the operating hours of entertainment venues for at least three months to monitor the outcome, allocating enough personnel to ensure tourism safety.
Russia visa deal gets mixed reception
Business, Molpasorn Shoowong, Published on 17/10/2023
» Tourism operators have shared different views on the cabinet's extension of the length of stay for Russian tourists, as some are concerned about a possible influx of illegal workers, while those in the South believe the policy will generate an uptick in spending.