The Hua Hin-Cha-Am Tourism Business Association held its December 2024 Extraordinary General Meeting and Happy New Year 2025 Thank You Party at Bluport Hua Hin Shopping Centre.
The event took place today (16 December 2024) at 1:30 p.m., with Mrs. Wasana Srikanchana, President of the Hua Hin-Cha-Am Tourism Business Association, presiding over the meeting. Mr. Sitthichai Sawatsan, Deputy Governor and Acting Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, delivered a keynote lecture titled “Thailand’s Tourism Crisis in 2025 and Public-Private Sector Cooperation for Tourism in Prachuap Khiri Khan.” The event was attended by Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul, Mayor of Hua Hin, government officials, organisation representatives, the association’s vice-presidents and committee members, association members, and members of the media.
During the meeting, Dr. Kranya Sutharam, a marketing representative from the Central Region Office of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, presented the 2025 tourism marketing strategy. The focus was on linking Hua Hin and Cha-Am as premier destinations for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). Dr. Kranya emphasised enhancing existing events to international standards and attracting new activities to add value to the region.
Mr. Sitthichai Sawatsan elaborated on the challenges facing Thailand’s tourism sector in 2025, noting that Prachuap Khiri Khan ranked fifth in national tourism revenue this year. Looking forward, the province aims to strengthen its competitiveness by fostering collaboration between government agencies and the private sector. He introduced a comprehensive strategy to develop a Wellness Economy at village and community levels, under the slogan “Prachuap: A Livable and Visit-Worthy City – Next Move PRACHUAP Must Move Forward.” Key highlights of the strategy include:
- Festivals, Events, MICE, Arts, History, Culture, Nature, Beaches, and Islands
- Food, Drinks, and Gastronomy
- Water Sports, Beach Activities, and Muay Thai
- Alternative Medicine, Thai Traditional Massage, Herbal Spa, and Onsen
- Faith, Sacred Sites, and Meditation
- Value Creation and Product Development
- Elderly Healthcare for the Aging Society
- Long-Stay and Homestay Accommodation in 100 Communities
Mr. Sitthichai stressed that the Wellness Economy has the potential to drive inclusive economic growth, create new opportunities, and ensure fairer income distribution.
Ms. Kirada Lamkorat, Director of Tourism and Sports for Prachuap Khiri Khan, outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen the tourism industry, highlighting continuous promotional activities planned to attract tourists in 2025.
Additionally, Mrs. Duangjai Khumsaat, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office, and Ms. Vorakarn Thavorn, Deputy Director of TAT Prachuap Khiri Khan Office, presented key tourism policies for 2025. Their discussion centred on strengthening connections between Hua Hin and Cha-Am, setting clear targets, and promoting sustainable tourism experiences that deliver long-term value.
A special presentation of flowers was made to Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul, Mayor of Hua Hin, in recognition of Hua Hin’s achievement of being ranked among the Top 100 Destinations for two consecutive years (2023-2024) by Greendestinations.org.
The association’s agenda followed, with eight key executives reporting on the previous year’s performance and presenting the financial summary for November 2024. Mrs. Wasana Srikanchana concluded the meeting by thanking all attendees for their continued support and contributions.
The evening concluded with a vibrant New Year celebration under a “Colourful” theme. The event was an opportunity to thank members, esteemed guests, and media representatives while celebrating the beginning of 2025 with joy and goodwill.
