Thai national parks to add concessions

In an intriguing move by Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the government is considering a proposal to grant 30-year concessions to privately-owned companies, allowing them to operate businesses within its national parks. The ministry named 10 of the country’s most popular national parks to be the first to get the concessions.

According to Vichit Pattanakosai, deputy chief of the National Park, Plant and Wildlife Conservation Department, this pilot project is aimed at improving facilities and service within the nation’s national parks. Concessions will allow private restaurants, lodging, and shops to exist within the boundaries of the parks. Vichit said that the concessions will attempt to create sustainable tourism and a reliable source of income for local residents. Vichit is also the chairman of a government panel working on investment and tourism in Thailand’s national parks.

The first 10 parks slated for an onslaught of business are Khao Yai, Erawan, Kaeng Krachan, Phu Kradung, Mo Ko Similan Marine Park, Mo Ko Surin Marine Park, as well as four national parks around Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon, Doi Suthep-Pui, Huai Nam Dang, and Pha Hom Pok. Although the concession plan is still under proposal, the ministry has announced the creation of 17 new national parks, bringing the nationwide total to 148.