Proposal for Phuket’s ‘Special City’ Status

Phuket is on the path to becoming a ‘Special City,’ a transformation that could bring it in line with Bangkok and major economic hubs like Rayong, Chon Buri, and Chachoengsao. Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas has presented a compelling case to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, advocating for a governance structure that gives Phuket greater autonomy over its infrastructure and tourism policies.

What Does This Mean for Phuket?

• Enhanced infrastructure development – better roads, public transport, and waste management.
• Potential economic boost – more streamlined processes for businesses and investors.
• Property value growth – increased demand from both domestic and international buyers.
• Risk of mismanagement – autonomy brings efficiency but also requires strong oversight.

Why is Phuket Pushing for This Change?

Despite generating revenues exceeding ฿300 billion, Phuket currently operates under rigid national governance, making it difficult to address localised issues such as:

• Traffic congestion in key tourist areas.
• Environmental concerns and waste management challenges.
• Urban planning that aligns with Phuket’s growing tourism industry.

What’s the Catch? Potential Challenges

While the prospect of greater autonomy is exciting, it is not without risks:

• Corruption and transparency concerns – ensuring fair governance will be crucial.
• Rapid development could drive up living costs, potentially pricing out locals.
• Will it attract more international investors at the expense of local interests?

Impact on Phuket’s Property Market

The Phuket property market stands to benefit significantly if this proposal goes through:

• Higher property demand due to improved infrastructure.
• More investment opportunities in both residential and commercial real estate.
• Greater international visibility, positioning the island as a top-tier global investment destination with particular strength in the luxury Phuket property sector.

For more insights on Phuket’s real estate trends, check out our  2025 Phuket Real Estate Market Report