Pattaya nightlife operators have called on the city’s next mayor to work closely with the business sector and support policies aimed at strengthening Pattaya’s position as a world-class tourist resort. The appeal comes ahead of the Pattaya mayoral and city council elections on June 28, 2026, with business owners seeking greater cooperation to support tourism and economic growth.
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Lisa Hamilton, President of the Pattaya Nightlife Operators Association, said the incoming mayor should have a strong understanding of the local business community, listen to industry concerns, and maintain ongoing collaboration with private sector stakeholders. She noted that previous cooperation with city administrators had helped operators communicate issues effectively and contribute to the city’s development.
“We hope the new mayor, regardless of who is elected, will continue this close partnership to ensure smooth development of the city and its tourism industry,” Hamilton said.
Picture courtesy of Matichon
The association has put forward two key proposals designed to enhance Pattaya’s tourism appeal. The first is to extend the closing time for entertainment venues in designated entertainment zones from the current 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM. Operators argue that longer opening hours would better match tourist behaviour and help sustain economic activity in one of Thailand’s leading international destinations.
The second proposal calls for a review of existing zoning regulations governing entertainment venues. According to the association, many of the current rules were introduced years ago and no longer reflect Pattaya’s significant urban expansion. Business owners are seeking an expansion of designated entertainment zones in high-potential areas to allow more venues to operate legally while improving regulation and supporting long-term tourism growth.
The group highlighted Jomtien as an example, noting that although the area now contains hundreds of bars, it is still technically outside official entertainment zones. Operators say businesses there have only been granted temporary permission to remain open later despite repeated requests for permanent zoning changes.
Pattaya’s nightlife sector previously benefited from national measures that extended operating hours to 4:00 AM in selected pilot areas. Operators credit those changes with helping to stimulate the city’s nighttime economy and attracting visitors.
The latest proposals are intended to help Pattaya remain competitive with other major tourism destinations worldwide. Nightlife operators believe that updated regulations and extended operating hours would further support the city’s ambition to be recognised as a world-class resort destination.
The requests come as voters prepare to choose a new city administration. Candidates in the mayoral race include incumbent Poramese Ngampichet, Itthiwat Wattanasaathorn of the People’s Party, independent candidate Sakchai Tangho, and two other contenders. Voting for both the mayoral and city council elections is scheduled for June 28, 2026.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 8 June 2026