The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) announced the decision last Friday (Nov 21), marking a major strategic win for Thailand as the government pushes to expand its reach in the fast-growing global wellness economy, valued at more than B5.6 trillion.
According to the government, the November 2026 summit is expected to bring at least 600 experts, investors and industry leaders from more than 30 countries.
Direct revenue is projected to exceed B300 million, with an overall economic impact estimated at more than 15 times that amount, driven by increased investment opportunities in advanced medical care, health innovation and high-quality service industries.
Officials attributed the win largely to the efforts of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), which led Thailand’s international bid.
TCEB worked on shaping the country’s global positioning, negotiating with international partners, and presenting Phuket as a strong candidate city under a long-term strategy to establish Thailand as a leader in the regional wellness economy, said an official report of the announcement.
TCEB’s approach included analysing Phuket’s development potential, building a brand identity for the province as a ‘Wellness City’, and coordinating strategies across public and private sectors. Government officials noted that this synergy played a key role in convincing the GWI selection committee.
Hosting GWS 2026 also aligns with the government’s ‘White Economy’ and ‘Silver Economy’ policies, which focus on strengthening health-focused industries and services for ageing populations, said the report.
The event is expected to accelerate Phuket’s transition from a world-class tourism destination into a global wellness capital, the report noted.
Officials said the decision boosts investor confidence and highlights Thailand’s growing capability to drive new-economy sectors, reinforcing TCEB’s role as a central mechanism in shaping the country’s long-term economic direction.
Dr Pongthorn Pokpermdee, Director-General, Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, said, “The Department is committed to promoting Thai traditional and alternative medicine on the international stage in a sustainable way, while creating economic opportunities and improving people’s quality of life. Being selected to host the Global Wellness Summit 2026 is not only a source of national pride, but also a major step toward establishing Thailand as a true global leader in wellness.”
Dr Supawan Teerarat, Director, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization), also praised the announcement. “Securing the Global Wellness Summit 2026 is a strategic national victory that shows MICE is more than tourism ‒ it is a real economic engine driving Thailand’s future economy.
“TCEB has adopted the principles of the Color Economy, especially the White Economy, to strengthen Thailand’s position in the global wellness sector and to help transform wellness tourism into a sustainable wellness economy. This success also opens new opportunities for investment, international cooperation and long-term growth.” Dr Supawan added.
Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Advisor to the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, noted, “Phuket has reshaped its provincial strategy to prioritise quality of life and good health for both residents and visitors, following the Longevity Destination concept.
“Hosting the Global Wellness Summit is a major step in strengthening the wellness and medical service ecosystem, helping us provide high-quality services to everyone. This is an important national strategy to raise global awareness of Thailand’s service standards and health innovation.”