13 Policy on Community Tourism Development in Thailand Niti Wirudchawong* Abstract Tourism policy in Thailand has been simultaneously developed by several governmental sections/ organizations. (1) TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand), (2) Ministry of Tourism and Sports, (3) The department of Local Administration, Ministry of Interior and community tourism. This presentation will analyze role of each sections/organizations in the course of tourism policy development, with special focus on policy of community tourism. Case study of Koh Yao Island located in Phangnga will be introduced to promote the understanding. Additionally, current policy and future expectation of tourism policy shall be introduced. (1) The Eleventh National development plan of Thailand (2012-2016) and the community tourism, and (2) The Thailand National Tourism Development Plan 2012-2016 will be roughly introduced. Keywords: tourism development policy, The Thailand National Tourism Development Plan, community tourism, Thailand １．Introduction Tourism Industry has played important role in Thailand Economy. Thailand government believes tourism as a fast tract to economy growth and requires less investment than other industries. Among the Southeast Asian countries, Thailand is attracted visitors. Apart from exports, tourism is an important source of foreign exchange revenue in Thailand. Thailand has been well placed to benefit from tourism. Tourism attractions in Thailand include nature-based destinations, historical sites, culture, people’ s friendly deposition, Thai cuisine, recreational facilities. Concerted efforts are geared to help protect ＊ Director, Office of the Ombudsman Thailand