The vice-president of the Tourism Industry Council calls for strict and fair enforcement of the laws to restore the image of the two popular islands.
The tourism sector of Samui and Phangan gives its full support to the clean-up operations targeting influential groups and mafia practices. Ratchaphon Phunsawat, vice-president of the Tourism Industry Council of Thailand and former president of the Koh Samui Tourism Promotion Association, believes these behaviours seriously damage the appeal of the destinations.
According to him, the term « mafia » now covers far more than traditional criminal networks. It also includes unequal structures operating outside the law: systematic overcharging, illegal occupation of public space and exploitation of tourists. These deeply entrenched practices have been damaging the islands’ image for many years.
The professionals propose adopting a zero-tolerance policy based on impartial enforcement of the law. They also call for bringing informal activities into the tax system to restore fair competition.
« When the tax system is fully applied, the state will be able to collect revenue transparently and sustainably, thereby closing the door to extortion and secret payments. »
The sector also stresses the need to strengthen border controls. It recommends that the Immigration Office rigorously check the criminal records and actual activities of foreigners wishing to invest in Thailand.
On the ground, the authorities have already launched in-depth inspections, particularly against companies controlled by foreign capital through nominees. Measures are also being taken to regulate public transport and prevent any monopoly situations.
The professionals are above all concerned about the impact on the islands’ reputation. Incidents involving local groups and tourists are widely reported abroad, creating an image of unsafe destinations. The priority is therefore to collectively restore a positive perception.
Despite a challenging international context marked by geopolitical tensions and rising airfares, European arrivals remain high. On Samui and Phangan, low-season occupancy reaches 70 to 80 % of capacity, a record above pre-pandemic levels.
« If the government succeeds in sustainably eliminating these mafia practices and restoring confidence, the tourism industry will be able to grow year-round and generate substantial revenue », said the vice-president of the Tourism Industry Council of Thailand.