Thai massage industry set for overhaul

DTAM eyes labour shortage, reputation

- POST REPORTERS

The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) says it is working on a comprehensive upgrade of the country's traditional Thai massage industry.

The upgrade will cover its image and reputation, as well as professional standards and a shortage of human resources, according to the department's deputy director-general, Somsak Krichai.

He said although Thailand's massage and wellness industry is valued at around 200 billion baht annually, regulatory gaps and unequal service quality are key challenges.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, between 30,000 and 50,000 massage and spa workers left the industry, while the therapeutic practitioner segment faces a shortfall of about 20,000 professionals. The shortages are particularly acute in major tourist destinations.