Thailand Aims for 690 Billion Baht Wellness Boom by 2025
Bangkok—Thailand is strategically investing in its burgeoning health and wellness sector to significantly boost its national economy. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced seven innovative policies designed to capitalize on global health trends and establish Thailand as a premier destination for medical tourism and wellness services. The ambitious plan projects a 690-billion-baht contribution to the national GDP in 2025, representing approximately 3.39%—a figure exceeding the 2.8% predicted by the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council.
This optimistic outlook follows a meeting chaired by Mr. Somsak on Friday, focused on solidifying Thailand’s position as a medical and wellness hub. The meeting highlighted the nation’s recent successes in health product development and service expansion, attracting both domestic and international investment, according to the Ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Opas Kankawinpong. This success forms a strong foundation for the newly unveiled policies.
These initiatives encompass several strategic areas, from supporting traditional Thai therapies to promoting health tourism and fostering a robust domestic medical equipment manufacturing industry. One key element involves empowering traditional Thai massage therapists through specialized training in seven specific syndromes, including common ailments such as office syndrome (muscle pain), frozen shoulder, trigger finger, and paralysis. This targeted approach aims to elevate the professionalism and efficacy of traditional practices, further enhancing Thailand’s reputation in this field.
Furthermore, the Ministry is expanding the national drug list under the National Health Security Office to incorporate more Thai herbs, anticipating annual revenue exceeding 13.5 billion baht. This move not only supports traditional medicine but also promises significant economic benefits. The plan also promotes «wellness routes,» showcasing Thailand’s spas and hot springs, and will pilot «allocation» packages combining hotel stays, wellness treatments, and traditional Thai medicine in popular destinations such as Phuket. These packages offer tourists a convenient and appealing way to experience the diverse aspects of Thai wellness.
Beyond traditional practices, the government is committed to propelling Thailand into global leadership in Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) by 2028, a market projected to reach a global value of 1.25 trillion baht by 2030. This forward-looking strategy aims to position Thailand at the forefront of medical innovation.
The policies also address the development of world-class aesthetic clinics, training programs for aestheticians, and support for beauty product entrepreneurs. Additionally, the government is developing a system to facilitate access to specialized services for international visitors, including psychiatric and behavioral therapy, surrogacy, reproductive technology, and gender confirmation surgery.
While Minister Somsak expressed confidence in the policies' potential, he acknowledged the need for legislative adjustments to facilitate growth in the health and wellness sector. Amending existing laws and regulations will be crucial to streamlining processes and creating a more conducive environment for investment and innovation. This comprehensive strategy, combining traditional practices with cutting-edge medical advancements, positions Thailand to boost its economy and solidify its place as a global leader in health and wellness. The initiative represents a significant investment in the future, leveraging the nation’s strengths and embracing global trends to create a vibrant and prosperous sector.
