PATTAYA, Thailand – As Chinese investments and tourism continue to grow in Pattaya, concerns are mounting among expats about the city’s future. Many fear that an unchecked influx of Chinese businesses, tour groups, and property developments could lead to the same fate as Sihanoukville, Cambodia—a city that saw rapid Chinese expansion, environmental degradation, and increased crime before its eventual decline.
One expat bluntly stated, “China will just destroy Pattaya like they did to Sihanoukville, Cambodia.” The comparison stems from worries about Chinese-owned businesses outcompeting local Thai and foreign-owned establishments, rising property prices pushing out smaller businesses, and the potential for unregulated development damaging Pattaya’s charm.
Adding to the frustration is a perceived lack of law enforcement. Another expat noted, “And no police presence to enforce law & order!”—a sentiment shared by those who believe authorities are either unwilling or unable to regulate the growing influence of Chinese investors and tourists.
While Pattaya has long been an international city welcoming tourists from around the world, some expats fear that without stricter regulations and balanced development, it could face the same struggles seen in other Southeast Asian cities overwhelmed by foreign influence. Whether these concerns materialize remains to be seen, but the debate over Pattaya’s future is far from over.
