Phuket —
On January 9th, 2025, Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra chaired a meeting with key agencies to address Phuket’s infrastructure challenges and elevate it as a premium tourism destination capable of hosting large-scale events.
Highlighting the province’s rebound, with nearly 25% of all tourists visiting Phuket, she emphasized increasing per capita spending and supporting local businesses.
She proposed initiatives like a “boat taxi” system connecting all Phuket ports, urging private sector collaboration. Ongoing roadwork on Highway 402 was ordered to be expedited, alongside enhancing public transportation, such as EV buses, to address short-term mobility needs.
Paetongtarn also stressed cracking down on illegal activities to improve safety and uphold laws strictly.
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwanrat reported that tourism generated 481 billion baht in 2024, a 24% increase from 2023, with nearly 12.9 million visitors.
The province features direct flights from 21 countries, five world-class marinas, and a growing number of cruise ship arrivals, underscoring its role as Southern Thailand’s top tourism earner, according to Phuket Governor.
