Phuket to host three global conferences, boosting sustainable tourism, Pride and wellness

*Phuket has secured three major international MICE events in 2026: GSTC’s sustainable tourism conference, InterPride’s world meeting, and the Global Wellness Summit.*

Published: 2026-03-14 18:08 UTC Event date: developing

Phuket has secured hosting rights for three major international conferences in 2026, positioning the island as a leading destination for sustainable tourism, diversity, and wellness events, according to recent announcements by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

The events include the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026, InterPride’s world meeting, and the Global Wellness Summit, all scheduled to take place in Phuket over the course of the year. The GSTC conference, organised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, is set for April 21–24 at the Royal Phuket City Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town, with local coordination by the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation.

TCEB Director Supawan Teerarat said hosting these conferences underscores Phuket’s capability to attract large-scale international events and aligns with strategies to develop the city’s brand and identity as a model MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) city. She emphasised that these events reflect key global agendas—sustainability, wellness, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI)—and demonstrate Phuket’s emergence as a global leader in these sectors.

For local residents and businesses, the influx of international delegates is expected to generate significant economic benefits beyond traditional tourism, bringing increased revenue to hotels, restaurants, and other service providers. Suwit Phansengiam, Deputy Governor of Phuket, highlighted that international conferences create income streams that extend into the community and support local development, while also enhancing the province's image and expanding opportunities for investment.

The selection of Phuket for these high-profile conferences follows a successful bid process supported by TCEB, which has prioritised decentralising international events beyond Bangkok and fostering distinctive regional MICE identities. Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, President of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, noted that Phuket’s ability to attract these events was the result of strong collaboration between public and private sectors.

Hosting the GSTC, InterPride, and Global Wellness Summit will also reinforce Phuket’s commitment to sustainable growth and its appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travellers. The events are expected to draw thousands of participants from around the world, further cementing Phuket’s reputation as a world-class conference venue.

Preparations are now underway to ensure the island’s readiness to welcome international delegates. Local authorities and organisers will focus on logistics, infrastructure, and community engagement in the months leading up to the events. Observers will be watching to see how Phuket leverages these opportunities to strengthen its position on the international stage and deliver lasting benefits to its residents and tourism sector.

Source: https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40062761