Bangkok: The Cabinet has granted approval to a draft bill aimed at restructuring the Ministry of Culture and the National Culture Commission, leading to the establishment of two new entities: the "Ministry of Culture and Tourism" and the "Ministry of Sports." This initiative is designed to minimize redundancy and enhance the efficiency of public administration.
According to Thai News Agency, the spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, announced that this restructuring aligns with the Cabinet's policy statement to Parliament on April 9, 2026. The government's economic policy emphasizes tourism and culture as significant drivers of economic growth. Tourism, closely connected with culture, traditions, and local wisdom, is deemed essential for creating added economic value. The consolidation of cultural and tourism responsibilities under one ministry is expected to unify policy formulation, reduce redundancy, improve integration efficiency, and bolster Thailand's global competitiveness. The government envisions leveraging cultural soft power to promote tourism, generate community income, and elevate the country's international image.
The new Ministry of Sports aims to strategically manage sports-related missions tied to human resource development, public health, quality of life, the economy, and the sports industry. A dedicated ministerial-level agency will be responsible for directing and implementing these policies systematically.
The Cabinet approved the draft Act amending the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies Act, which focuses on restructuring the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. This proposal, submitted by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), is now set for urgent review by the Council of State before being presented to the government whip for consideration and eventual submission to the House of Representatives.
Key components of the draft bill include the creation of the "Ministry of Culture and Tourism," which will absorb the current Ministry of Culture. This new entity will oversee religion, arts, culture, and the development of the tourism industry and creative culture. Subordinate agencies will include the Office of the Minister, the Office of the Permanent Secretary, the Department of Tourism, the Department of Religious Affairs, the Fine Arts Department, the Department of Cultural Promotion, and the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture.
Additionally, the "Ministry of Sports" will be established, replacing the existing Ministry of Tourism and Sports. It will focus on promoting and developing physical education and sports, including basic, mass, elite, and professional sports, as well as recreational activities. It will also handle education, research, sports science, sports innovation, sports management, and the development of the national sports industry. Subordinate agencies will include the Minister's Office, the Permanent Secretary's Office, and the Department of Physical Education.
Ms. Rachada emphasized that the restructuring under this draft law would not increase positions, staffing levels, or the overall budget, adhering to the government's policy to reduce duplication and ensure efficiency in governmental functions.