Thailand confirms readiness to host Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2026 in Phuket - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Thailand has confirmed that Phuket is fully prepared to host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026, which will take place from 21 to 24 April 2026. The event is expected to bring together leading international experts, policymakers and tourism stakeholders, further strengthening Thailand’s position as a key destination for sustainable tourism and a hub for major international conferences.

The conference is being organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in cooperation with several partners, including the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Phuket Province, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation (STDF). The event is also intended to create long-term value for local communities while advancing global dialogue on responsible tourism.

Strengthening Thailand’s sustainable tourism leadership

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool described the event as a major milestone for the country’s tourism development.

“Hosting GSTC 2026 marks an important milestone to elevate standards, strengthen knowledge exchange, and reaffirm Thailand’s commitment to responsible tourism that benefits both people and the environment,” she said. “This reflects TAT’s mission to position the Kingdom as a world-class sustainable tourism destination by creating lasting value. Through cross-sector collaboration, international standards, and responsible tourism management, we are advancing an ecosystem where growth and sustainability go hand in hand.”

The announcement of Phuket’s readiness was presented jointly by Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Teeraphong Chuaychoo, Vice Governor of Phuket Province, and Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

Phuket prepared as international conference destination

According to Teeraphong Chuaychoo, the conference highlights Phuket’s capacity to host major international events while maintaining strong environmental and community standards.

“On behalf of Phuket Province, it is an honour to host GSTC 2026, reflecting Phuket’s readiness as an international conference destination,” he said. “Comprehensive preparations have been undertaken to ensure safety, convenience, and high environmental management standards, while maintaining the well-being of local communities. We are confident the conference will deliver lasting value for Phuket and Thailand.”

Local authorities have implemented a coordinated operational plan involving tourist police, provincial administration and public health services. Preparations include venue management, visitor safety measures and enhanced support services for international delegates. At the same time, ongoing initiatives in waste management, public space maintenance and sustainable urban management are being strengthened across the island.

Global platform for sustainable tourism dialogue

GSTC Chief Executive Officer Randy Durband emphasised Phuket’s significance as a venue for the global tourism sector.

“We are delighted to gather in Phuket for GSTC 2026, in a destination that holds a prominent place on the global tourism map,” he said. “Phuket provides an important backdrop for bringing together tourism leaders and stakeholders from around the world to share knowledge and advance more sustainable practices across the sector.”

The conference will be hosted across three venues: the Royal Phuket City Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town and the Kata Thani Beach Resort and Spa. Under the theme “Sustainable Hospitality, Resilient Cities and Communities, and Carrying Capacity and Visitor Distribution Management”, the event is expected to attract around 600 delegates from more than 30 countries, including government representatives, tourism industry leaders, academics and sustainability experts.

Key topics on the programme include carbon reduction strategies, sustainable destination management, biodiversity conservation, community-based economic development and the use of technology to support greener tourism practices.

The event itself will follow responsible event management principles. Organisers plan to minimise waste through digital solutions and reduced paper use, rely on environmentally friendly materials and implement initiatives designed to create direct benefits for local communities.

Economic and strategic benefits for Thailand

Hosting the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference is expected to generate a range of benefits for Phuket and Thailand. International delegates will contribute to local economic activity while the conference will also strengthen knowledge transfer, capacity building and international partnerships within Thailand’s tourism sector.

The event aligns with Thailand’s broader tourism strategy, which emphasises value-driven growth, stronger destination resilience and higher sustainability standards across the industry. Through initiatives such as GSTC 2026, the country aims to position itself as a global leader in responsible and sustainable tourism.

Image Credit: © TAT