Picture courtesy of Khaosod

A video showing a shop in Phuket’s Old Town charging visitors 40 baht to enter has triggered widespread criticism on Chinese social media, raising concerns about the potential impact on Thailand’s tourism image. The controversy emerged on 15 February 2026 after footage filmed inside a shop on Thalang Road circulated online, on Chinese social media apps. The incident has prompted calls for authorities to investigate.

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According to a report by Phuket Times on 15 February 2026, the clip spread rapidly on Chinese platforms, particularly Douyin. The footage allegedly shows an elderly woman inside the shop demanding a 40-baht fee from Chinese tourists to enter and browse products. When the visitors declined to pay, she reportedly used inappropriate language and made gestures perceived as mocking and racially offensive.

The video quickly drew criticism from users in both China and Thailand. Online commentators questioned the possible damage to Thailand’s tourism reputation, particularly among Chinese travellers, who represent a key market for the country. Some users claimed similar practices had occurred at other shops on Thalang Road, while others warned that such incidents could encourage tourists to choose alternative destinations.

A review of the footage shows the elderly woman speaking with tourists and gesturing after they refused to pay the entry fee. Viewers described her behaviour as inappropriate, intensifying debate across social media platforms. The episode has continued to generate discussion, with many urging relevant authorities to establish the facts and take appropriate action.

The incident comes amid broader concerns about maintaining confidence among international visitors. Chinese social media reaction has been especially strong, reflecting the sensitivity of tourism-related disputes. Observers have stressed the importance of swift clarification to prevent further reputational harm.

Khoasod reported that authorities have not yet publicly outlined specific steps in response to the controversy. Calls for an investigation remain ongoing as debate continues online. Further developments are expected as officials review the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Key Takeaways

• A shop on Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town was filmed charging a 40-baht entry fee to Chinese tourists on 15 February 2026.

• The video spread widely on Douyin, prompting criticism in China and Thailand over alleged inappropriate behaviour.

• Online users have urged authorities to investigate amid concerns about the impact on Thailand’s tourism image.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 16 Feb 2026

Surely the can charge whet they like, customers don't have to go in?

2 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

made gestures perceived as mocking and racially offensive

She thought they were deaf. She then communicated in Thai sign language.

If it only applies to the Chinese...it's very, very tempting to say..."well, why not"...🤣

But then on second thoughts, today it's them...tomorrow it will be for people like you...

20 minutes ago, Sigmund said:

If it only applies to the Chinese...it's very, very tempting to say..."well, why not"...🤣

But then on second thoughts, today it's them...tomorrow it will be for people like you...

Sounds like they are selling crap that nobody will actually buy so an entrance fee creates an illusion that there are hidden gems inside, when in reality it's garbage but shops till makes a profit from selling nothing, or are chinese more prone to shoplifting or breaking items and refusing to pay... very strange practice now they have this headache to contend with

22 minutes ago, Sigmund said:

If it only applies to the Chinese...it's very, very tempting to say..."well, why not"...🤣

But then on second thoughts, today it's them...tomorrow it will be for people like you...

Good!

If any shop wants to charge me for visiting , it's simple.....i won't!

I mean what sort of a business model is that?

I know.....a sales prevention scheme 😳

50 minutes ago, Smokey and the Bandit said:

Surely the can charge whet they like, customers don't have to go in?

Agreed. When faced with this here in Chiang Mai or nat'l parks, I say "mai dee, Khrap" and vote with my feet walking away. Up to them to loose the entrance fee and any services additionally paid for by this long term retired resident.

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Sounds like they had many people coming in without buying and having enough of that. Maybe some shoplifting as well. I don't think there's an issue with charging for entry, it's more the gestures that are being questioned.

I know a coffeeshop where's a sign saying 'Russians 100 baht to use the toilet'. They simply have enough of people changing buses (big bus from the airport, minibus to their hotel), and while waiting coming in to use the toilet without buying anything.

23 minutes ago, stevenl said:

I know a coffeeshop where's a sign saying 'Russians 100 baht to use the toilet'. They simply have enough of people changing buses (big bus from the airport, minibus to their hotel), and while waiting coming in to use the toilet without buying anything.

The sign should say Russians not allowed

Maybe the 40 Baht is deducted from any purchase? Just sayin...

Well, there's a suprise... a nasty old Chinese woman cussing over not getting money for nothing.

2 hours ago, Sigmund said:

If it only applies to the Chinese...it's very, very tempting to say..."well, why not"...🤣

But then on second thoughts, today it's them...tomorrow it will be for people like you...

Very true comment- it is easy to stay silent and watch others get treated less than equally- until it is your turn

5 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

The footage allegedly shows an elderly woman inside the shop demanding a 40-baht fee from Chinese tourists to enter and browse products.

It's OK, it's not that different from a Thai disco that charge 400 baht in entrance fee; however, ladies get in for free...👍😀

A similar issue as the double pricing, and ends up with the same result for me.....I don't go in! Shop owners can do what they want, it's their shop, and I can do what I want, not frequent their business. Voting with your wallet sends a clear message.

That shopokeeper was not very smart because if she wanted to rip off the chinese all she had to do was add the 40thb to the bill at the checkout.

8 minutes ago, wavodavo said:

That shopokeeper was not very smart because if she wanted to rip off the chinese all she had to do was add the 40thb to the bill at the checkout.

Doesn't work if they're not buying. Which I think is the issue.

1 hour ago, wavodavo said:

That shopokeeper was not very smart because if she wanted to rip off the chinese all she had to do was add the 40thb to the bill at the checkout.

And if they just fill the shop and stand round without buying owt, how does she get her money?

Take them hostage?

A pound to a piece of doodoo, that it only applies to chinese, REGARDLESS of what the sign says

4 hours ago, Thumbs said:

Sounds like they are selling crap that nobody will actually buy so an entrance fee creates an illusion that there are hidden gems inside, when in reality it's garbage but shops till makes a profit from selling nothing, or are chinese more prone to shoplifting or breaking items and refusing to pay... very strange practice now they have this headache to contend with

Your right. It's a great marketing ploy. People will wonder what is in the shop where she can charge an entrance fee. I am going to use it in my future shop in Australia but charge a massive entry fee that my security guard will collect.

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