The latest incident prompted officials led by Mueang Phuket District Chief Siwat Rawangkul to visit the shop on Wednesday afternoon (May 20) in an effort to defuse tensions and protect Phuket’s tourism image.
The video, widely shared on social media, allegedly showed the shop owner arguing with Chinese tourists after they entered the ceramic shop without paying the B40 admission fee or making purchases. Online posts also accused the owner of waving a shoe and attempting to strike tourists with an umbrella during the dispute.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on May 17, drew widespread criticism online, particularly from Chinese social media users concerned about the treatment of tourists in Phuket Old Town.
Mr Siwat, accompanied by Deputy District Chiefs Thiti Bunyasathien and Apichat Chantrawong, met with the shop owner alongside officers from Phuket City Police, Phuket Tourist Police and Phuket City Municipality.
Officials said the purpose of the meeting was to establish the facts and encourage more appropriate communication with tourists.
Mr Siwat explained that business operators should communicate politely with visitors, including clearly informing customers that the shop charges a B40 entrance fee.
Authorities said discussions with the owner were constructive and that the business operator agreed to adjust their behaviour and improve communication with tourists.
“All agencies and business operators agreed on a gentle approach to welcoming and communicating with tourists in order to maintain the warm and friendly image of Phuket Old Town,” officials said.
The controversy follows a similar incident in February involving the same Yaowarat Rd ceramic shop, when videos showing tourists being asked to pay a B40 entry fee went viral on Chinese social media platforms including Douyin.
At the time, the Phuket Provincial Commerce Office confirmed that charging an entrance or service fee was legal provided prices and conditions were clearly displayed in accordance with national pricing regulations.
Officials inspecting the shop in February found notices in Thai, English and Chinese explaining that the B40 fee could be deducted from purchases made inside the store.
However, authorities also warned the owner at the time to exercise greater care in interactions with tourists, cautioning that inappropriate behaviour could damage Phuket’s image and affect confidence among international visitors, particularly Chinese tourists.