Phuket Tourism Operators Seek Extension of “Tourism Clinic” Program, Adjust Measures for Illegal Hotels

Tourism operators and hotel owners in Phuket are urging the Interior Ministry to extend the Tourism Clinic program, a counseling initiative for operators running accommodation without proper registration. They want the program’s assistance period prolonged and are asking for renewal of ministerial regulations that allowed other building types to be registered as hotels. With some of those regulations expired, many small operators have been unable to adapt to legal requirements in time.

Since the Tourism Clinic began, many operators of small accommodations and rental homes have implemented recommended standard improvements, such as installing safety equipment, improving waste management and hygiene, upgrading drainage systems, and submitting proper permit applications. As a result, several properties have been able to resume operations legally, boosting confidence among both tourists and local communities. However, problems persist now that the facilitative regulations have ended; operators still mid-process face cost pressures and uncertainty.

Operators argue that extending the program and related regulations would give low-income owners and small operators the financial capacity and time needed to upgrade properties to public health and safety standards and complete registration. A policy-level extension would help avoid sudden law enforcement actions that could cause widespread closures, which would affect local workers and small service providers who depend on tourism income.

From the perspective of local authorities and the Tourism Promotion Committee, a balance must be struck between protecting consumers and tourists and preserving the community’s economy. Informal lodging businesses can produce low standards, poor waste management, and fire risks if left unregulated, but immediate strict enforcement could destroy the livelihoods of thousands of households. The province therefore proposes a clear adjustment period along with support measures such as low-interest loans and field engineering teams to provide technical advice.

For tourists, staying in unregistered accommodations can carry risks of inadequate safety protections or lack of compensation if problems occur. Extending the Tourism Clinic would directly benefit travelers by raising accommodation standards closer to international levels. Tourists are advised to request registration and safety-standard information from accommodation providers before booking and to rely primarily on reviews from previous guests.

The request to extend the Tourism Clinic and renew the special regulations is currently under discussion at the ministerial level. If renewed, it would open the way for continued technical and financial assistance, helping Phuket operators transition into compliance in a structured manner, securing the tourism sector, preserving the island’s hospitality for both visitors and residents, and promoting sustainable development over the long term.