The island of Phuket in southern Thailand has been selected as host of the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC), to be held in April 2026 in Phuket.

Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked all relevant agencies for their efforts in making Thailand successful in being selected as the venue for this world-class event.

The GSTC 2026 will be held under the theme of "Regenerative Tourism,” which involves unified operations among the public and private sectors and civil society to propel Thailand toward becoming a hub for international events in accordance with the Government’s policy.

It is expected to attract more than 700 participants from 60 countries. The event will also gather global and local tourism experts, hotels, tour companies, online travel agencies, educational institutions, development organizations, non-governmental organizations, and many other people involved in the industry.

It is likely to generate revenue of more than 50 million baht for Thailand, as host of the GSTC 2026.

The Government Spokesperson said that the event would provide a good opportunity for Thailand to show the potential of Phuket as an international event host, with its well-developed infrastructure, including an airport, hotels, public utilities, and international-standard amenities and services.

He pointed out that the GSTC 2026 marks another step toward upgrading Phuket and Thailand as a whole into a sustainable-tourism hub by 2027. Emphasis is placed on waste management, carbon-emission reduction, environmental conservation, and the adaptation of the tourism business amidst pressures and challenges from climate change.