The 20th Global Wellness Summit at Angsana Laguna Phuket, running from Nov. 10 to 13 under the theme “The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness,” would be attended by 600 delegates from Thailand and overseas, The Nation Thailand reported.
Organizers cited Queen Suthida’s longstanding interest in health and sports as a key reason for welcoming her to the anniversary gathering, saying her participation would further strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional wellness destination.
Phuket was chosen to host the event for its established wellness services, natural surroundings and Thai hospitality, as well as its role as a gateway to experiences elsewhere in the country, The Phuket News reported.
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Tourists on a beach on Phuket, Thailand. Photo by AFP |
Thailand is stepping up efforts to develop its healthcare sector into a major economic growth driver, aiming to become Asia’s leading wellness and longevity tourism destination within three years.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat outlined the government’s plan to transform the country’s medical and wellness industries into a major health economy, citing infrastructure development as a key factor supporting the ambition.
Thailand has demonstrated a strong post-pandemic recovery in wellness tourism.
Revenue from its wellness sector fell from $41.7 billion in 2019 to $31 billion in 2020, but rebounded to $39 billion in 2023 and reached $43 billion in 2024, making Thailand the ninth-largest wellness market in the Asia-Pacific region, Bangkok Post reported.