25-8-2023 (BANGKOK) As speculation grows about the composition of the new cabinet, tourism operators in Phuket express optimism over the potential appointment of the Pheu Thai Party to lead the Tourism and Sports Ministry. The party has made commitments to stimulate the industry through various mechanisms, garnering support from industry professionals.
While the official announcement of the new cabinet is pending, multiple news outlets have reported that the Tourism and Sports Ministry will be entrusted to the Pheu Thai Party, taking over from the Bhumjaithai Party.
Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, believes that if the new minister for tourism and sports comes from the Pheu Thai Party, it would have a positive impact on the industry. He anticipates increased budget allocation and improved effectiveness in integrating relevant policies with other economic ministries.
Mr. Adith emphasizes the need for fresh ideas and expresses optimism about the party’s potential leadership. Pheu Thai has already pledged to address visa application issues for Chinese tour groups and aims to introduce visa fee waivers for foreign tourists. Mr. Adith suggests that these measures are more likely to be implemented if the Pheu Thai Party also assumes control of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, as speculated.
Srettha Thavisin, the anticipated prime minister, has also expressed intentions to develop two new airports in Chiang Mai and Phuket. However, Mr. Adith believes that the government should prioritize infrastructure development in second-tier tourism cities instead. He suggests that tourism operators support the idea of renovating regional airports in other provinces, rather than solely increasing investments in major destinations.
While the Pheu Thai Party has a track record in economic policy development, Suksit Suvunditkul, president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), emphasizes the need for time to assess the government’s ability to drive the economy. The THA raises concerns about the party’s minimum wage policy, as it could impact hotels with three stars and below. Mr. Suksit urges the new government to prioritize reducing operational costs and living expenses at an appropriate rate, such as electricity fees and food products.
With the Pheu Thai Party also eyeing the Transport Ministry, Mr. Suksit hopes that the party will address various issues in Phuket, including taxi scams, restrictions on ride-hailing app drivers entering the airport, and the development of more public transport networks.
