Udon Thani:Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, is actively supporting the community economy of the Red Lotus Sea in Udon Thani through ecotourism marketing initiatives. Her efforts aim to enhance income from local products and services by connecting natural attractions with World Heritage sites and the Royal Flora Expo.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supajee visited the Red Lotus Sea at Nong Han Kumphawapi, where she received a briefing on a waste sorting and community awareness project aimed at promoting responsible and sustainable tourism. She emphasized the potential for Udon Thani to be a year-round tourist destination, requiring collaboration among communities, tourism agencies, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand to connect key attractions and create diverse experiences for tourists.
Ms. Supajee highlighted the importance of integrating local products and services with tourism activities to boost spending and create income opportunities for local businesses. She noted the Ministry of Commerce's focus on adding value to agricultural and community products through market linkages and agro-tourism initiatives, such as promoting Ban Don Kloi's high-quality rice.
The strategy of using key influencers, like Lisa from the Tourism Authority of Thailand's previous campaign, has significantly increased tourism demand at the Red Lotus Sea. The number of boat trips rose from 40,000 to 120,000 annually, showcasing the effectiveness of marketing in enhancing local tourism.
Environmental conservation remains a priority, with initiatives encouraging tourists to engage in waste separation and recycling, as well as plans to introduce electric boats to enhance tourism services sustainably. Ms. Supajee extended an invitation to both Thai and international tourists to visit the blooming Red Lotus Sea and experience the integration of tourism with local markets, thereby fostering economic growth and resource conservation.