Tourism operators are urging the government to reform law enforcement and regulation, as businesses and tourists suffer from worsening bribery issues, harming the nation's tourism reputation.
Thailand's score in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index fell one point to 33 out of 100 points, while its global ranking was down nine places to 116th.
The Phuket Boutique Accommodation Consortium said the poor corruption score reflected tourism concerns in Phuket, such as bribery and a lack of law enforcement against criminals.
Common cases include entertainment venues opening late during restricted hours, foreigners working without permits as tour guides, drivers or sex workers, or operating businesses illegally using nominees.
Authorities could collect bribes from violators, allowing them to keep operating, the consortium president said.
Phuket also has more cases of foreigners breaking the law, such as renting motorcycles without licences and breaking traffic rules, with some officers collecting bribes instead of enforcing the law, the president said.
The president of the Khao San Road Business Association said bribery is common in Thai tourist destinations.
Police officers and civil servants earn low wages, which entices them to seek opportunities from bribery, he said.
