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Monday, 28 July 2025

Village to the World: How Thai Communities Are Redefining Sustainable Tourism

Bold Vision for a New Era of Travel

A quiet revolution is unfolding across Thailand’s villages. Under the visionary "Village to the World" initiative, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and private sector partners, is empowering local communities to become global leaders in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)-driven tourism. This is not just a tourism development programme — it is a movement that blends tradition with innovation to transform the nation’s grassroots into global examples of sustainability in action.

Community First, Economy Forward

Spearheaded by TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the programme is designed around one simple but powerful idea: local communities hold the key to Thailand’s sustainable future. At the official launch event, a strong coalition of government leaders, business executives, and community representatives gathered to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter — one that connects people, planet, and profit.

Unlike conventional tourism projects, "Village to the World" puts ESG at the heart of every initiative. Through the innovative ESG Partnership for Impact framework, leading SET-listed companies are directly supporting seven prototype communities across five provinces, each co-developing tailored strategies to achieve real, measurable outcomes.

Local Roots, Global Standards

Each participating community is turning its unique strengths into sustainable models. In Chiang Mai, AIS is helping villagers in Mae Soon Noi and Doi Wiang master digital tools that open doors to modern tourism. In Nan, SCG and Yournique are introducing circular economy practices to preserve natural resources in the Pa Laeo Luang community. In Phitsanulok, BAFS is merging agricultural innovation with eco-tourism in Ban Mung Nuea.

Along Thailand’s eastern seaboard, Chon Buri’s Ban Amphoe community is tackling marine waste with long-term solutions, while in Lampang, Thai AirAsia and the Department of Cultural Promotion are developing immersive cultural routes that highlight the heritage of Tha Ma-O and Pong Sanuk.

These efforts are not standalone stories — they are part of a larger, interconnected framework designed to scale nationally. With every village that succeeds, new templates for ESG success are created and shared.

From CSR to Shared Value

"Village to the World" represents a major shift in how Thailand approaches sustainable development. It goes beyond the traditional model of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and moves toward Shared Value — where businesses and communities grow together by building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.

Travel platforms and airlines are playing a critical role by increasing accessibility to these communities. Gother, Local Alike, Yournique, SiamRise, Friday Trip, Guide Guru, and Thai AirAsia are all supporting the campaign, helping travellers discover authentic experiences while contributing to local development.

This is tourism with a purpose — designed not just to entertain, but to empower.

For more information, visit:

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) https://www.tourismthailand.org/home

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) https://www.set.or.th/en/home

Local Alike https://localalike.com/

Thai AirAsia https://www.airasia.com/en/

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