On 13 September 2021, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand invited H.E. Mr. Supattanapong Panmeechao, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Governor of Phuket and team, to join a virtual meeting with Ambassadors, Consuls-General and representatives from Missions overseas, totaling 64 countries, on the direction of Thailand’s reopening plan and further steps of the Phuket Sandbox program. Director-General for International Economic Affairs and Director-General of Information also joined the meeting.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy reiterated the Prime Minister’s commitment to pursuing the 120-day reopening goal while giving precedence to public health and safety. Thailand has gradually opened more destinations for foreign visitors following the Phuket Sandbox program as part of the reopening plan. He stressed the need for sustainable economic recovery and repositioning of tourism sector, focusing on a higher-spending and niche segment and revitalising the tourism industry with sustainable footing, along with the promotion of trade and investment.
 
The Governor of TAT updated a plan to expand Thailand’s Sandbox program from Q4 2021 to Q1 2022, covering nationwide locations and border provinces. Relevant agencies are exploring possibilities to ease and update the Standard of Operation (SOP) for entering the Sandbox, to attract more European and North American tourists. The Phuket Governor and the President of Phuket Tourism Association unveiled the plan to adjust measures and facelift the Phuket Sandbox program towards the “Phuket New Normal” by 1 December 2021, the beginning of the high season in Phuket and nearby areas, with an aim to ensure the health and safety of travellers.
 
Ambassadors, Consuls-General and executives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed readiness to work closely with relevant agencies to move forward ‘Thailand Reopening’ and promote international confidence in Thailand.