Phuket MP Warns Cannabis Aroma Could Deter Tourists
Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee warns that the smell of cannabis on beaches is driving away affluent tourists, urging for stricter regulations and a reevaluation of visa policies
Key Points
- 1Phuket MP warns cannabis smell deters tourists
- 2Lack of regulation turning beaches into no-go zones
- 3Visa-free policy criticized for attracting 'grey tourists'
- 4Calls for tighter cannabis laws and migration control
- 5Phuket's tourism reputation at risk, says MP
Phuket's tourism industry is facing new challenges as local MP Chalermpong Saengdee raises concerns about the pervasive smell of cannabis on the island's beaches. He argues that this odor is deterring affluent tourists, which could harm the island's reputation as a premium destination. Saengdee's remarks come amid a broader critique of the government's regulatory approach to cannabis and its visa-free entry policy
In a statement issued on July 25, Saengdee criticized the lack of stringent cannabis regulations, suggesting that the current situation is turning prime beach areas into undesirable locations for high-spending visitors. He emphasized the need for laws akin to alcohol regulation, including age restrictions and designated zones, to manage cannabis use more effectively. "We must consider whether attracting one group of tourists is worth losing another," he asserted
Saengdee also highlighted the shortcomings of the visa-free policy, particularly concerning Chinese tourists. He noted that the anticipated influx of visitors has not materialized, and instead, the policy has attracted "grey tourists" involved in illegal activities. "When we opened visa-free entry, we didn’t get what we expected," Saengdee stated, urging a reassessment of this approach
The MP called for urgent government action to restore Phuket's status as a world-class tourist destination. He urged for tighter control over cannabis sales and a crackdown on illegal migration to refocus efforts on attracting high-quality tourists. "We cannot ignore what’s happening on our beaches, in our streets, and in our policies any longer," Saengdee said, stressing the importance of immediate intervention
Phuket, renowned for its luxury tourism appeal, now finds itself at a pivotal moment. The island's future as a leading tourist destination may depend on how effectively these issues are addressed. Saengdee’s call to action highlights the need for a balanced approach to tourism policy that preserves Phuket’s allure while accommodating new market dynamics