Bangkok, Thailand – For three decades, Dujruedee Thaithumnus has been conducting symbolic same-sex weddings on the beautiful beaches of Thailand’s Samui island. As Thailand moves closer to legalizing LGBTQ marriages, Dujruedee is excited to officiate legally recognized ceremonies for the first time and tap into the lucrative “pink baht” market.
Once the bill is officially passed, Thailand will join Taiwan and Nepal as the only Asian countries where same-sex couples can wed. This change in legislation not only opens up new opportunities for wedding planners like Dujruedee but also provides legal recognition and financial benefits for LGBTQ couples.
Businesses across various sectors, from event planning to real estate, are gearing up to cater to the LGBTQ community. The Pride month celebrations in Thailand are estimated to generate up to $120 million in tourism and spending, showcasing the immense potential of the “pink economy.”
Entrepreneurs like Dujruedee and Ploy Rahong are eager to create specialized offerings for LGBTQ couples, from weddings to property sales. As Thailand positions itself as a global LGBTQ-friendly destination, the future looks promising for businesses embracing diversity and inclusion.