Modern-day Phuket is a dynamic and rapidly changing place. One could argue this has been the case for some time now. However, nowadays if you leave the island for a month you might not recognize it anymore. The landscape is constantly in a state of flux whether it’s rubber plantations or jungle being cleared, towering new condominium projects, or new underpasses and other major construction projects. Phuket is going to be a busy island in 2025, let’s take a look at what we can expect to see.
Probably the singular top-of-mind topic for Phuket expats is the current surge of development and what this means for island residents. It’s certainly a contentious issue and, as one can imagine, is a double-edged sword. On one hand, there are the growing pains associated with development such as traffic, environmental impacts, and the inevitable rise in the cost of living. Conversely, development spurs the economy, raising the quality of life, providing more opportunities for locals and expats, and creating competition which can increase the quality of education and business.
One major project which is likely to impact many Phuket residents is the underpass to be built at the Heroine’s Monument in Si Sunthon. The island’s burgeoning population has strained the transport infrastructure spurring the construction of underpasses – this one is to be the fourth. While the completed project will undoubtedly provide traffic relief, its construction will be disruptive.
Speaking of a burgeoning population, that is something else we can expect to see more of in 2025. In 20 years, Phuket’s has grown from a claimed population of 160,000 to 455,000. However, these numbers only reflect those with a registered address in Phuket and some estimates put the island’s actual population at close to double that. Regardless, the amount of residential building projects currently underway is a clear indication that developers expect the trend to continue.
Also in the realm of residential development, it’s expected that we will continue to see changing trends in architectural and design styles. Preferences are shifting from standalone properties with traditional Thai design features, towards more minimalist-styled homes in gated communities. Researchers also claim that there is greater focus on buying for investment rather than for personal use with occasional rental.
Water is another key topic that will garner significant attention and discussion in 2025. Phuket has ongoing issues with fresh water supply, wastewater management, and flooding. These problems are exacerbated by the increased population and tourist numbers. It’s increasingly common for wells to run dry, the municipal water supply to be intermittent, and the island’s reservoirs to be depleted before the rains can refill them. However, a water pipeline project is in the works. Anyone who’s walked along a canal in Phuket can see, and smell, the need for wastewater treatment. This topic is being addressed by a group of Chinese government consultants who specialize in small-scale treatment plants. Regarding flooding, short-term solutions such as pumps have been the local government’s immediate response, however, a long-term plan doesn’t yet seem to exist.
We are also going to see the Phuket International Airport get a bit busier in 2025. There’s a plan to increase the number of daily flights by 20% for upwards of 300 flights per day. This is to accommodate a predicted 18 million people who will travel through the airport this year. Last year already saw a 20 percent increase from the year before.
