Phuket is set to take centre stage in global tourism discussions as it hosts the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) 2026 from April 21–24, 2026, bringing together international leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to advance responsible tourism practices.
Organised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), the conference will take place at the Royal Phuket City Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town, positioning Phuket as a key destination for sustainability-driven tourism dialogue.
The event will convene a diverse global audience, including tourism professionals, destination leaders, academics, and industry decision-makers, creating a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange on the future of sustainable travel.
GSTC 2026 will focus on critical themes such as carbon reduction strategies, biodiversity preservation, and community-based tourism development, reflecting the growing global emphasis on sustainable and regenerative tourism models.
In addition to the main conference, the programme will include pre-conference training sessions, an academic symposium, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, offering participants practical insights and tools to implement sustainability standards across destinations and businesses.
Phuket’s selection as the host destination highlights its commitment to sustainability and its emergence as a model destination for responsible tourism practices. Supported by local and national tourism bodies, the conference aligns with broader efforts to position Phuket as a global hub for sustainable tourism innovation.
From an industry perspective, the event is expected to strengthen international collaboration, policy alignment, and business engagement, while enabling stakeholders to explore new strategies for resilient and sustainable tourism development. The conference will also facilitate networking opportunities, fostering partnerships that can drive long-term transformation in the sector.
As the global tourism industry continues to evolve in response to environmental and social challenges, GSTC 2026 in Phuket is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of responsible travel, setting new benchmarks for sustainability and innovation worldwide.
