Phuket officials have warned tourism businesses across the island to get legal by the end of January, or face hefty fines – and even jail.
Authorities met yesterday to discuss cleaning up the local tourism industry, including controversial animal shows.
About 45 tourism businesses operate illegally out of the roughly 80 man-made adventure businesses on the island, officials say.
That includes elephant farms and trekking, offroading, animal shows, shooting ranges, go-kart racing and other adventure parks.
Phuket vice governor Dr Prajiad Aksornthammakul said officials would be coming to inspect safety standards of local business operators, including several that include animals in their shows.
In February authorities will start checking the legal standards of the businesses, with those failing to register facing a THB500,000 fine or even jail time of up to two years, said Santi Pawai , Director of Ministry of Tourism and Sports Phuket Office.
Tourist operators that include animals will be fined up to THB200,000 if they fail to obtain the proper permits, said Phuket City Deputy Superintendent, Lt Col Saman Chainarong.
The move comes just after a Chinese tourist was bit on the nose by a python during what was later revealed to be an illegal snake show last Saturday.
The tourist – who had to get stitches – got THB135,000 in compensation before heading back to her home country days later. Local officials have since shut down the show on Soi Palai in Chalong.
“Our goal is to provide security to all because it is the heart and soul of tourism. The island is still a tourist destination and these attractions need to ensure safety standards,” said Prajiad.
“Business operators across the island were invited to join the meeting [yesterday] and they have been informed to follow the tourism laws and regulations closely, from registration to obtaining other permits related to their business venue, and all must be done within this month.”
Officials will also ensure guided tour companies are prohibited from selling options to tourists outside of programmes advertised in their own brochures.
“If tourists are injured while on tour with any company, that company will be held responsible for all medical expenses and compensation to the tourist,” Pawai said.
“Over 80 man-made adventure businesses on the island and 45 of them still operate illegally.
“I encourage all businesses to register before January ends and be legal as a guarantee to tourists around the world that Phuket has good quality tourism industry that is up to international standards.”
Story: Phuket News
