Phuket Economy

Tin mining has been a major source of income for the island since the 16th century. Chinese businessmen and Chinese workers were employed in the mines. Most were Hakka Chinese, and their influence on Phuket culture and cuisine can still be felt today. With falling tin prices, the mining has now all but ceased. In modern times, Phuket's economy rests on two pillars: rubber tree plantations (making Thailand the biggest producer of rubber in the world) and tourism, with a thriving diving industry attracting thousands of divers each year. Various nightlife activities such as prostitution attract thousands of men and women each year as well. Even though it is illegal the police will look the other way for a fee, which is paid by the clubs and bars.

Since the 1980s the sandy beaches on the western coast of the island have been heavily developed into tourist centers, with Patong, Karon and Kata being the most popular ones. Since the 2004 Tsunami, all damaged buildings and attractions have been restored.

The island is currently going through an intensive period of leisure urbanization with many new hotels, apartments and houses under construction.

source : From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia