Thailand’s government recently unveiled a 157‑billion‑baht stimulus package aimed at economic recovery. But shockwaves hit Phuket when local MP Chalermpong Saengdee broke the news: the island—home to some of the nation’s top tax contributions—received a measly 267.34 million baht, landing it 75th out of 77 provinces in funding.
A Misplaced Priority?
Imagine pouring out water into cups—but skipping the biggest and leaving the smallest with scraps. That’s the criticism flying at the ruling coalition. Nakhon Ratchasima, for instance, received a staggering 3.5 billion baht—thirteen times more than Phuket. Chalermpong didn’t mince words: “It feels like a political war chest rather than a real economic rescue.”
Betrayed a Vital Tax Engine
Phuket pumps serious tax revenue into Bangkok’s coffers. Cue the outrage when speech turned to action—crickets. The MP labeled the block grant “an insult” and a “betrayal” to taxpayers on the island.
| Province | Stimulus Allocation (B THB) | Relative Position |
|---|---|---|
| Phuket | 0.267 | 75 / 77 |
| Nakhon Ratchasima | ~3.5 | Top recipients |
| Average per province | ~2.04 | — |
That table tells the story: Phuket—already bruised by immigration loopholes and illegal tour operators—got barely a sliver of attention, while dateless pledges dried up.
Coalition Games or Cost-Cuts?
The MP pointed out that provinces represented by coalition MPs secured bigger budgets, while opposition-held areas got the leftover crumbs. “Is it because my family doesn’t carry the right last name?” scoffed Chalermpong.
It’s a political chessboard. And Phuket’s budget? Left entirely on the bench.
Roadmap to Recovery — or Rejection?
Chalermpong sounded a clear warning: Without decentralisation, Phuket may starve in circles. Policies like visa loopholes and rampant cannabis use are already tarnishing its reputation. Yet even these problems don’t secure much in stimulus dollars.
“What if Phuket could call its own shots, design its local stimulus plan? We’d use every baht smarter than any Bangkok bureaucrat ever could,” Chalermpong urged.
Why It Matters for Tourism
Phuket isn’t just another province—it’s Thailand’s golden goose. Tourists flock here by the millions, generating funds that ripple across the economy. Throwing pennies at such a powerhouse could mean missing out on reopening pathways for tourism, ramping up employment, and restarting small businesses. Without money flowing in, Phuket may stall.
Could It Get Worse?
If resentment simmers too long, Phuket could retaliate politically—or economically. Reduced investment, frustrated entrepreneurs, and faltering infrastructure could follow. At stake: Thailand’s image and a region central to its tourism comeback.
Conclusion
What should have been a celebratory stimulus rollout is turning into a case study in misaligned priorities. Phuket’s tiny slice of a national rescue fund isn’t just budget math—it’s a slap in the face for a province that powers tourism and tax returns. The response? A rallying cry for decentralisation, equity, and letting those who know their region best take charge. Until that happens, Phuket may be stuck with breadcrumbs while others feast.