Thailand Prepares to Become a Medical Hub: A Booming Health Economy Driven by Middle Eastern Investment

By 2025, Thailand aims to position itself as a global center for wellness, expected to generate significant economic benefits. Medical tourism from Middle Eastern countries like Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE is rapidly expanding, with a revenue flow reaching up to 700 billion baht, and an average spending of around 89,000 baht per person per trip.

Dr. Kanyarat Kuisuwan, Deputy Director of the Bureau of Comprehensive Medical Industry Promotion, Ministry of Public Health, revealed a strategic plan for developing Thailand's "Medical Hub." This initiative will run from 2025 to 2034, focusing on boosting the competitiveness of Thailand’s comprehensive medical industry while enhancing marketing and promoting ecosystems.

The strategy includes five key pillars: Wellness Hub, Medical Service Hub, Academic Hub, Product Hub, and Health Convention and Exhibition Hub. These are essential for driving the country towards becoming a global health center.

Four Key Milestones for the Future:

1. Medical Hub: Thailand will be a top destination for medical treatments, with increasing expenditures supporting sustainable economic growth.
2. Medical and Wellness Valley: With a diverse range of medical centers and world-class specialists, Thailand is well-positioned to support the elderly and those seeking ongoing health recovery.
3. Wellness Hub: Expanding health services by well-trained medical professionals will provide comprehensive solutions to meet growing demand.
4. Herbal Product Innovation Hub: Developing herbal products for both domestic and international markets will strengthen Thailand’s medical and health industries.

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), Thailand’s top wellness sectors in 2022 include nutrition and weight loss, wellness tourism, self-care and beauty, and traditional Thai medicine, accounting for 87% of the wellness market. Opportunities for growth, particularly in health food and beauty products, which represent 68% of the market, show that Thailand is well-positioned to expand further into new markets in the future.

For More Information: Ministry of Public Health
Tel: 02-590-1000
Link: https://www.moph.go.th/