The conference was officially opened last night (Apr 21) by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorasak Panjaroenvorakul, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to placing sustainability at the centre of national tourism development.
The event, which continues through Friday (Apr 24), brings together global tourism leaders, policymakers and industry experts to define the future direction of sustainable tourism, with discussions centred on key themes including sustainable hospitality, resilient cities and communities, and managing visitor capacity.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the minister highlighted a shift towards “value-based” tourism, focusing on environmental protection, cultural preservation and community benefit rather than visitor numbers alone. He said Thailand is promoting low-carbon tourism, encouraging travel to secondary cities, and supporting local communities to ensure more equitable income distribution.
Also present was Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Thapanee Kiatpaiboon, who said hosting the conference reinforces Thailand’s ambition to position itself as a leading sustainable destination.
“With more than 600 participants from around the world, this conference provides an important platform to exchange knowledge, inspire innovation and strengthen cooperation towards a sustainable tourism future,” she said, adding that Thailand is working towards net-zero goals in the sector.
Phuket was selected as the main venue to showcase its readiness across infrastructure, tourism management and sustainability practices. Officials pointed to the island’s ability to host multiple international events this year as evidence of its growing status as a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) hub.
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn welcomed delegates, highlighting the island’s balance between natural attractions and cultural heritage, and its ongoing efforts in marine resource restoration and environmental management.
“Phuket is not only a world-renowned destination, but also a model for responsible tourism development,” he said, noting that the conference outcomes are expected to be translated into concrete policies.
The programme includes academic forums, workshops and networking sessions addressing issues such as climate change adaptation, post-disaster recovery, hotel waste management and improving accessibility at tourist destinations. Post-conference field trips on Friday will allow participants to observe sustainable tourism practices in local communities and marine environments.
A welcome dinner held at the Blue Elephant restaurant last night marked the start of the event, bringing together ambassadors, consular officials and tourism stakeholders in a showcase of Phuket’s local cuisine and cultural identity.
Organisers said the conference is being run with sustainability measures in place, including carbon reduction efforts and a tree-planting initiative aimed at environmental restoration.
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) noted that hosting the conference in Phuket is particularly fitting, given the island’s prominence as one of Southeast Asia’s most visited destinations and its reliance on tourism as a key economic driver.
Officials said the event is expected to strengthen Thailand’s position as a global leader in sustainable tourism, while enhancing the capabilities of local operators and reinforcing Phuket’s role as a model destination for future-focused travel.