Dr. Tanupol Virunhagarun, Chief Executive Officer – Group 8 (BDMS Wellness Clinic, BDMS Wellness Resort and BDMS Silver), Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited (BDMS), said that BDMS Wellness Clinic, as a supporter of the Global Wellness Summit 2026 (GWS 2026), is joining the international gathering of leaders in the global wellness economy. Thailand has been selected to host the summit in celebration of the event’s 20th anniversary. The summit will take place at Angsana Laguna Phuket from November 10–13, 2026. BDMS Wellness Clinic is also supporting Thailand’s preparations to host the event, led by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine under the Ministry of Public Health. Its support covers key activities throughout the summit, including exhibition spaces showcasing Thailand’s capabilities in preventive medicine and curated wellness experience routes. These initiatives aim to showcase Thailand’s strengths in preventive medicine and Scientific Wellness to participants from around the world.

According to the latest report from the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness economy was valued at US$6.8 trillion in 2024, growing at an average annual rate of 7.9% between 2023 and 2024—higher than the growth rate of global GDP. The wellness economy is projected to continue expanding at an average annual rate of 7.6%, reaching US$9.8 trillion by 2029. This trend reflects the growing importance of preventive healthcare as a major global health direction. Amid this growth, Thailand is demonstrating strong potential in the international wellness industry. The country’s wellness economy was valued at US$42.7 billion in 2024, up from US$38.8 billion in 2023, representing 10.1% growth and ranking seventh-highest globally. Thailand’s wellness economy ranks ninth among 45 countries in the Asia-Pacific region and 24th among 218 countries worldwide.

This growth represents more than just an increase in business value. It also reflects a tangible shift from a healthcare system focused primarily on treating illness toward one that places greater emphasis on prevention before illness occurs. As a result, health is no longer viewed merely as a cost to a country, but increasingly as an economic asset capable of generating long-term value and sustainable growth.

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