The delegation aimed to understand the challenges and successes in promoting tourism and to discuss the roles of local government organisations in the tourism sector.
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwanarat and Vice Governor Norasak Suksomboon welcomed Yutthaphong Charasathian, Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Ruenvadee Suwanmongkol, Inspector-General of the Prime Minister’s Office, Inspection Area 6.
Governor Suwanarat provided a comprehensive overview of Phuket’s demographics and tourism statistics, said an official report of the meeting, with some of the key economic indicators reported differing from those previously reported by other national agencies.
With an island population exceeding 1.25 million, of which only 423,599 are registered residents, the remaining are tourists and local workers primarily engaged in the tourism sector, Governor Sophon reported.
Phuket’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, with 92.9% of its income stemming from the industry. In 2023, tourism revenue soared to over B388 billion, marking a 100.3% increase from 2022, with over 11.3mn tourists visiting the island, he said.
Of note, the B388bn tourism revenue figures presented greatly differs from the nationally reported figures usually easily exceeding B400bn. No explanation was given for the difference.
Meanwhile, the Governor continued that Phuket boasts a modern international airport with direct flights from 18 countries connecting with more than 65 cities, accommodating an average of over 2,100 flights per week.
Additionally, the deep-sea port accommodates large cruise ships, and the marina supports modern yachts, facilitating an average of 35 inbound and outbound boats a week.
However, the Governor highlighted several challenges, including wastewater management, water supply issues due to limited reservoirs, and recurring flooding in 42 areas.
Despite these challenges, plans are underway to address water supply issues by using water from the Cheow Lan Dam in Surat Thani. Additionally, the government has approved a budget for a medical centre, though funding is still awaited, said the official report.
Mr Yutthaphong encouraged Phuket to prepare a detailed project plan to propose for government funding, though no recognition was given to Phuket’s ongoing and repeated requests submitted with the central government in Bangkok.
Ms Ruenvadee expressed sympathy for the province’s budget limitations and commended Phuket’s environmentally-focused projects, such as the approved incinerator construction project, the official report noted.
The pair praised Phuket’s efforts to enhance tourism, despite budget constraints, and highlighted the province’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection.
The delegation’s schedule includes visits to Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong) and the Phuket Old Town area today (Aug 4) to study local tourism promotion activities.