Phuket Tourism Faces Infrastructure Strain as Tourist Arrivals Surge

As the number of tourists passing through Phuket airport continues to break records, the Phuket Tourist Association is urging the government to upgrade the island's infrastructure to alleviate congestion and improve residents' quality of life. In the first six months of this year, tourist arrivals surpassed 2019 and 2024 figures, with Russian visitors leading the way, followed by Chinese and Indian travelers. While Indian tourists are growing in number, Chinese visitors have declined nationwide and in Phuket. The association notes shifts in tourist behavior, with Chinese holidaymakers extending their stays, increasing average stays from 2.5 nights to nearly seven and quadrupling their spending. Despite the challenges, the association expects this year's tourist arrivals to exceed those of 2019 and 2024.

Key Takeaways:

• Phuket tourist arrivals have surpassed 2019 and 2024 figures, with 34% decline in Chinese visitors nationwide, also occurring in Phuket.
• Indian tourist arrivals have grown, partly offsetting the decline in Chinese visitors.
• Average stay for Chinese holidaymakers has increased from 2.5 nights to nearly seven, with spending up four times, according to Alipay data.
• European visitors are rising despite their peak season typically starting in November, with tourists from Australia, the Middle East, and nearby Asian countries attracted to the island during the low season.
• Phuket airport's single runway has a capacity of around 20 flights per hour, managing over 250 flights per day during the rainy season and over 300 flights per day during the high season.
• The island's waste incinerator can process around 700 tonnes per day, while daily waste generation averages 1,200 tonnes, resulting in the surplus being sent to landfills.
• The association is calling for urgent government support to address infrastructure issues,including road upgrades, waste management, and a fully integrated wastewater treatment system.
• Thep Krasattri Road (Highway 402) is the only major connection between Phuket and the mainland, with Mr. Thaneth stating that upgrading the roads would be the top priority if the association could choose one urgent improvement.

Statistics:

• 34% decline in Chinese visitors nationwide.
• 3,400% increase in average spending by Chinese holidaymakers (from Alipay data).
• 20 flights per hour capacity of Phuket airport runway.
• 250 flights per day (rainy season) / 300 flights per day (high season) managed by Phuket airport.
• 700 tonnes (per day capacity) / 1,200 tonnes (daily waste generation) - waste management statistics.
• 7 - average stay for Chinese holidaymakers (up from 2.5 nights).

Sources:

• Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Association
• Tourism and Sports Ministry
• Alipay data shared by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)