Bangkok: The Senate's ad hoc committee on the 2027 budget has raised concerns over the disparity between the potential revenue generated by tourism and the comparatively small budget allocation it receives. Senator Chamlong has called for the establishment of an independent ministry for tourism, expressing apprehension that it might otherwise become subordinate to the Ministry of Culture. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wuttichat Kalyanamit, Chairman of the Senate's Ad Hoc Committee on the Consideration of the Draft Annual Budget Act for Fiscal Year 2027, disclosed that the committee recently reviewed the Ministry of Tourism and Sports' budget, which is set at 15,061.61 million baht. This marks a 9.111 percent decrease from 2026. Despite this reduction, the target for tourism revenue in 2027 is ambitiously set at 3 trillion baht, vastly exceeding the 2025 figures by 2.71 trillion baht, amid global uncertainties. The budget allocations for various sports-related departments have also seen cuts. The Depart ment of Physical Education's budget decreased by 18.50 percent to 627.2095 million baht. The National Sports University received 1,716.8420 baht, a reduction of 7.39 percent. The Sports Authority of Thailand was allocated 3,445.7438 baht, reflecting an 8.41 percent decrease. Mr. Jamlong Anantasuk, Vice Chairman and Spokesperson of the Senate Committee on Tourism and Sports, highlighted that tourism contributes approximately 300 billion baht annually, constituting 10-15% of national revenue. Despite this significant contribution, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports has been allocated just over 15 billion baht for 2027. This allocation is considered insufficient given its role in attracting tourists and organizing national events. Mr. Chamlong argued against placing tourism under the Ministry of Culture, emphasizing that tourism encompasses multiple dimensions, including security, economy, and health. He advocated for the tourism sector to either gain ministry status or operate as an independent agency, allowi ng it to leverage its global reach and connectivity. Furthermore, Mr. Jamlong addressed the sports budget reduction, underscoring the need for integrated efforts to promote academic work, develop referees, and enhance personnel capabilities. He stressed the importance of sports standing independently, advocating for infrastructure development and community sports facilities to strengthen social resilience and counter drug abuse. Senator Chamlong concluded by urging all agencies to maximize their potential despite reduced funding, ensuring that Thailand's tourism and sports sectors maintain global competitiveness. The committee highlighted the importance of focusing budget allocations on systematically developing Thai athletes' potential, integrating sports science and research, and investing in community sports infrastructure to promote public health and combat drug abuse among youth.
