PHUKET, THAILAND – A viral video from a souvenir shop in Phuket triggered a debate over racist behaviour toward Chinese visitors and a controversial 40-baht entry fee.
Viral clip from Phuket souvenir shop
The incident centered on a recording from the ceramics and souvenir store “Positive Thinking”, in which the owner pulled her eyes back with her fingers and stuck out her tongue in front of a Chinese customer to imitate Asian facial features. The clip spread quickly on the Chinese platform Douyin and was also widely shared in Thailand, where many internet users condemned the behaviour as racist and damaging to the image of the holiday destination.
Controversy over 40-baht entry charge
Alongside the outrage over the gesture, reports circulated on Thai social networks that the shop regularly charged visitors an entry fee of 40 baht. Critics described the practice as unfair, particularly because, according to online comments, customers were asked to pay if they left the store without making a purchase.
Authorities inspect shop and clarify legal position
Following the wave of criticism, officials from the Phuket Provincial Commerce Office visited the business on 15 February to examine the allegations on site. The agency concluded that the shop was legally entitled to levy an entry fee, provided the terms for customers were clearly and visibly communicated.
Conditions for allowing the fee
According to the officials, signs in Thai, English and Chinese were posted in the shop, drawing attention to the 40-baht fee and the related conditions. The notices also stated that the entry charge would be credited towards the final price when goods were purchased and would therefore effectively be deducted.
Official criticism of owner’s conduct
While the legal status of the entry fee was clarified, authorities stressed that in their view the behaviour of the shop owner was not acceptable. The officials warned that such actions could harm the international image of the destination and urged business operators to show much greater sensitivity when dealing with foreign guests.
Steps to raise standards in local businesses
According to the authorities, the owner agreed to follow the recommendations and to avoid similar behaviour in future. The Phuket Provincial Commerce Office also announced it would increase shop inspections to three days per week and provide targeted advice to operators on appropriate conduct towards foreign tourists.
Training planned to protect tourism reputation
In addition, the authorities planned training offers on professional business practices and customer-oriented service for local operators. With these courses, they aimed to prevent comparable incidents, while at the same time strengthening the confidence of foreign visitors in fair and respectful treatment.
Broader questions about respect in tourism
The case showed how a single video from a country heavily dependent on tourism could rapidly attract global attention. It also highlighted how sensitive interactions with guests had become and how quickly misconduct could lead to economic consequences.
“Should operators in the tourism sector be required to undergo mandatory training on dealing with international guests, or is this an overreaction?”
said local commentators, reflecting the ongoing debate.