Thai PM demands quality street food

BANGKOK Thailand’s Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-o-cha, has called on the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to push forward the promotion and quality of Bangkok’s street food venues.

Government spokesperson, Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd, said the Prime Minister was pleased with the latest findings that indicated Bangkok was the most visited destination in Asia Pacific according to Mastercard Asia Pacific Destinations Index 2017.

“With Bangkok now ranked highly in several polls including best street food and fresh markets, the Prime Minister has called on the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to collaborate with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to reorganise and promote Bangkok’s street food in a tangible manner, especially in Yaowarat, and Khao San areas.”

Street food locations have to present clean and safe presentations with fair prices, the PM said.

Food vendors in the areas must wear proper food preparing attire, must dispose of their food waste properly and must clearly state their prices in Thai, English and Mandarin. The sellers must also be trained to comply with public hygiene rules and other pertinent skills for catering to Thai and foreign visitors. Uncertified vendors are barred from the areas.

Ministry of Tourism and Sports will host the 4th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Bangkok next year.

According to Mastercard Asia Pacific Destinations Index 2017, Bangkok remains the most visited destination in Asia Pacific with 19.3 million overnight visitors, out of 339.2 million overnight visits registered in 171 Asia Pacific destinations in 2016.

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