The conference, organised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, took place from Aug 5-8 at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. It brought together industry leaders, government officials, and tourism professionals from around the world to share knowledge, showcase best practices and promote the GSTC Criteria ‒ globally recognised standards for sustainable tourism.
The Phuket delegation was led by Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai and included Pattanachai Singhawara, Director of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, President of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation; Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, President of the Phuket Tourist Association; and a working group from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office.
Mr Samawit said the event offered a valuable opportunity to study international approaches and innovations in sustainable tourism, and to forge connections with organisations and entrepreneurs from across the globe.
“The knowledge and partnerships gained here will strengthen our preparations for hosting GSTC 2026 and help elevate Phuket’s image as a leader in sustainable tourism,” he said.
Phuket will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2026 from Apr 21-24 next year. The event is expected to attract hundreds of delegates and further position the island as a model for balancing tourism growth with environmental and cultural preservation.