PHUKET – Phuket authorities have been given until August 24 to decide on the site of its new International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICEC).
The ultimatum has come from Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Dr Suwit Yodmanee.
Dr Suwit set the deadline during meetings with government officers during his weekend tour of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi.
Dr Suwit said, “Phuket attracts more than 80 international meetings each year. It’s important for the Ministry of Tourism to support Phuket in having a convention centre.
“I need Phuket to quickly decide on a location by itself, and if you have any problems, please ask us.”
The Phuket Gazette reported that Dr Suwit told Phuket tourism authorities that any budget from the central government must wait until the next budget year, which begins October 1.
“I know that deciding on a location is difficult for the province because three private investors have submitted good locations, and Phuket must now consider which location will best match the government’s interests,” Dr Suwit said.
