Phuket authorities have intensified inspections of accommodation establishments across the island, uncovering suspected licensing violations as officials strengthen enforcement measures to protect tourists and ensure fair competition within the hospitality industry.
Image Credit: PR Department of Phuket Provincial Office
On October 23, 2026, this Phuket Hotel News report highlights a coordinated inspection operation ordered by Phuket Governor Chotinrin Kerdsum, who assigned Deputy Governor Romdon Haji Awae to lead checks targeting accommodation businesses suspected of operating outside established legal requirements.
Authorities Inspect Properties in Wichit and Patong
The operation brought together provincial administrators, district officials, police officers, and representatives from relevant government agencies.
Among those participating was Siwat Rawangkul, Phuket City District Chief and Acting Provincial Permanent Secretary.
Inspection teams visited two establishments, one in Wichit Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, and another in Patong Subdistrict, Kathu District.
Both locations fall within areas experiencing considerable accommodation demand from domestic and international visitors.
Unlicensed Accommodation Operations Uncovered
During the inspections, authorities identified improper building usage and accommodation operations lacking the required hotel business license.
Interviews with guests revealed that accommodation was being offered through daily and monthly rental arrangements, with reservations accepted through an online booking website.
The establishments reportedly accommodated both Thai nationals and foreign visitors.
Officials are now collecting documentation, operational records, and other relevant evidence to determine appropriate legal proceedings against those responsible.
The hotel at Patong was identified as the OYO 861 Patong Dynasty Hotel
https://www.agoda.com/en-ie/oyo-861-patong-dynasty-hotel/hotel/phuket-th.html
Stronger Enforcement to Safeguard Phuket Tourism
Provincial authorities emphasized that licensing enforcement extends beyond administrative compliance.
Properly regulated accommodation businesses are expected to meet applicable operational requirements, helping reduce potential safety risks while protecting visitors from establishments operating without necessary authorization.
The inspections also seek to establish fairer competition between legally registered hotels and accommodation providers operating outside regulatory frameworks.
The initiative supports the national government’s broader tourism development and law enforcement policies under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Phuket Moves Toward Safer Accommodation Standards
Phuket officials intend to encourage consistent regulatory compliance throughout the hospitality sector while improving accommodation quality and strengthening traveler confidence.
Continued inspections could also discourage unauthorized operators and reinforce the island’s reputation as a dependable international destination.
For Phuket’s tourism industry, effective enforcement will remain important in balancing commercial growth, visitor protection, and sustainable development as accommodation demand continues evolving.
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