Despite Thailand losing the hosting rights for the World Specialized Expo 2027/28, Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew extended gratitude to everyone who supported Phuket’s proposal. During their 172nd general meeting, which was held in Paris, the event’s organizer, the Bureau International des Expositions, named Belgrade, Serbia as the winner.
In a Facebook post to the public, Governor Narong stated:
“Team Thailand would like to express their sincere gratitude to all parties involved in this outstanding bidding process. This incredible journey has been shaped in large part by your steadfast support and tireless efforts.He went on to emphasize that Phuket is still an open invitation to travelers from all over the world to enjoy its natural splendor, cultural diversity, and warm friendliness.In a subsequent announcement, Governor Narong discussed Team Thailand’s efforts to win the hosting rights as well as the lessons discovered from their loss at the Phuket Expo.
The Phuket mayor also voiced his hope for next bids to host big international events and applauded the unity among locals and the public and business sectors involved in the bid process. Insufficient government backing has frequently been cited as the reason Thailand has previously failed to secure the hosting rights for international expos. In contrast, the Thai government set aside a sizable budget of US$4.18 billion to organize the Phuket Expo and launched a significant public awareness campaign.
The event, according to estimates from the authorities, may bring in up to 50 billion baht in economic value, draw more than 5 million tourists, and produce more than 113,000 employment on the island.
The three Vice Governors hosted an event at Dibuka Cafe & Restaurant in Phuket Old Town, which was broadcast live online from Paris, where Team Thailand’s final presentation and vote took place. Despite the outcome of the Phuket Expo bid, the supporters’ morale and outlook for the future remained positive.
