Chiang Mai, Thailand, Targets Wellness and Longevity Tourism for Economic Growth
Chiang Mai, Thailand, a city known for its cultural heritage, is actively pursuing a strategy to become a global hub for wellness and longevity tourism. The city, home to Chiang Mai University, which specializes in engineering, science, agriculture, and medicine, currently attracts three million foreign tourists annually. Officials have developed a five-year plan to significantly increase this number to 7.5 million by 2031, with an ambitious revenue target of up to 150 billion baht from foreign visitors. This strategy is built upon five core pillars: longevity food, herbal medicine and cosmeceuticals, medical services, mindfulness and mental wellbeing, and marketing powered by digital technology and AI. The initiative aims to leverage the city's existing resources and cultural appeal to cater to a growing global demand for health-focused travel experiences. Attractions like the Patara Elephant Farm and various hotels further contribute to the city's tourism infrastructure. 
