Phuket, a renowned paradise in Thailand known for its vibrant tourism and flourishing property developments, is seeking the attention of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Recent discussions have revolved around an innovative proposal: to establish an Andaman Wellness Economic Corridor (AWC). This groundbreaking concept aims to keep up with the rising global trend of health and wellness while simultaneously bolstering relevant investments and reigniting the jest in the tourism sector.
The suggestion has come in the wake of Prime Minister Srettha’s unscripted rendezvous to Phuket and Phangnga on 25th-26th August, which aimed at attuning with the local populace while garnering insights from business pioneers to uplift the tourism aura of the two provinces. In the midst of these discussions, a consortium of entrepreneurs led by Kan Prachumphan, the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Beach Group and Andaman City Development Co rallied forward the idea of the AWC.
Originated during the reign of the Prayut Chan-o-cha government, the comprehensive six-province corridor plan (encompassing Phuket, Krabi, Phangnga, Ranong, Trang, and Satun), seeks to mirror the successful Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The focal point of this venture is to aid in the rebound from the Covid-19 aftermath and summon an income influx in the burgeoning wellness and medical tourism sector.
Phuket, for instance, is globally recognized for its advanced medical treatment, public and private spas, international conventions, and exhibitions, and it serves as a world-class wellness center. Phangnga runs a marine tourist service joint operation with the Sky Doctor service, a center for collecting medical expenses from foreigners, and has conceptualized a climate therapy treatment system for long-stay tourists, which includes a state-of-the-art dental center.
Krabi envisions improving the coveted Klong Thom Spa, while Trang is strategically planning to become a food city hub and wellness destination within the Andaman region. Both Satun and Ranong propose to tap into the wellness sector, focusing on long-term residence and spa-based healing, respectively.
“The idea of the AWC needs to be brought to life as soon as possible. It simply cannot be forgotten,” CEO Kan ardently expressed to the Bangkok Post.
To make these ideas a reality, Kan suggests the government should amp up investments in the infrastructural development of Phuket International Airport. The goal is to increase the airport’s capacity to handle an international tourist influx projected to reach around 18 million visitors by the next year.
Additionally, Mr. Kan propounds that more investment should be channelled towards the building of a new airport in tambon Khok Kloi in Phangnga to augment regional revenue.
“The potential of the Andaman provinces to serve as an aviation industry hub in the Southeast Asian region is one that should not be undermined,” observed Mr. Kan
Mr. Kan also advocates for legislative changes to ease the AWC establishment, boosting of Phuket’s Sister City of Investment policy, and promotion of cooperative ventures with cities like China, Hong Kong, or Singapore for its cable car project.
Additionally, he pitched the idea of the Transit Oriented Development and Land Bridge project to enhance transportation connectivity in the Andaman region. This could also entail the development of a mass transit system and a slew of new landmarks incorporating recent technology advances.
With eyes on the future, Phuket has plans to develop a smart city labour market. “Renowned as a ‘workation city’, Phuket is a magnet for quality workers from all over the globe with skills centered around digital knowledge and service experiences,” noted Mr. Kan.
He also highlighted the government’s free-visa policy and tourism promotions, which will boost the purchase of real estate in Phuket and other Andaman provinces.
Thanapat Uttawarapong, an analyst from Andaman City Development, posits that, although challenging, establishing the AWC is critical. He proposes passing special legislations to eliminate legal barriers that may hinder the process.
Uttawarapong also emphasized that the private sector is in full support of the AWC project and are eager to invest in development projects sprawled across various sectors including real estate and hospitality. Once the AWC is fully operational, it will attract investment from all corners of the world, flowing into Phuket and other Andaman coastal provinces.
As per sources in the loop, Prime Minister Srettha, along with his crew, are scheduled to revisit Phuket and Phangnga on 29th-30th September to oversee the ongoing development of Phuket International Airport and other related tourist developments as the peak tourists’ season in November approaches.
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