Phuket is turning its attention back to its international medical hub plans after losing out to Belgrade in its bid to host the next Specialised Expo. According to a Nation Thailand report, government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri says the island will now market itself as a world-class health and wellness destination, in addition to its reputation as a favourite tropical island with lots of beaches and world-class entertainment.

 

While Phuket passed in the first round of voting to determine the Expo host yesterday, it was eliminated in the second round. In addition to Belgrade, the island was competing against Minnesota in the US, Malaga in Spain, and Bariloche in Argentina. Eventually, it came down to Malaga and Belgrade in the last round of voting, with the Serbian capital securing 81 votes to Malaga’s 70.

 

According to Anucha, caretaker PM Prayut Chan-o-cha has thanked all those involved in Phuket’s bid, adding that Phuket remains focused on its objectives of sustainability, infrastructure development and a solid economic structure.

 

By Peter Roche

Photo: Medical Hub in Phuket

 

Full story: https://phuket-go.com/phuket-news/phuket-news/phuket-renews-focus-on-medical-hub-plans-after-failing-to-win-expo-bid/

 

-- © Copyright Phuket GO 2023-06-22

 

- Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here.

Phuket Aims to Become International Medical Hub After Expo 2028 Bid Loss
by Krajangwit Johjit

 

    
BANGKOK (NNT) - Phuket province has set its sights on becoming an international medical hub following its unsuccessful bid to host the Specialised Expo 2028.

 

Thailand had launched a bid for Phuket to host the expo, emphasizing the island’s suitability around the theme of "Future of Life: Living in Harmony, Sharing Prosperity."

 

Although Phuket performed well in the initial round of voting, garnering 16 votes compared to Argentina’s 8, its hopes were dashed in the second round with only 15 votes, trailing behind the United States, Spain, and Serbia.

 

Despite the setback, Government Spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri expressed gratitude on behalf of caretaker Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha for the efforts made to promote Phuket during the bidding process. He affirmed that Phuket remains committed to its long-term development plans, focusing on sustainability and the enhancement of infrastructure and economic stability.

 

Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan outlined the province’s continued dedication to projects associated with the expo, particularly the transformation of the planned venue in the Mai Khao Subdistrict into an international health center. This initiative aims to cater to the healthcare needs of both Thai residents and foreign visitors.

 

Meanwhile, Rewat Areerob, president of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation, revealed that discussions would be held with 18 local partners to explore projects aimed at stimulating the economy and boosting tourism in the region.

 

 

Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230622111218080

 

-- © Copyright NNT 2023-06-22

 

- Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here.

Try a Whack-a-mole contest on the beach...

What world class entertainment? I love Phuket for its beaches, but the 'entertainment' is rather seedy.

There's that word again. Hub. 

4th out of 5 ain't good.

World-class exposition venues require world-class infrastructure.