"SEX INDUSTRY: Economic Opportunity or Social Crisis?"

On March 30, 2026, ArtBangkok Thailand organized a panel discussion titled "SEX INDUSTRY: Economic Opportunity or Social Crisis?" V. Srivarathanabul, editor of ArtBangkok Thailand, moderated the discussion, which included Mr. Korn Chatikavanij, Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party**,** and Mr. Sastra Chuchip, owner of FORFUN Bangkok.

FORFUN Store is a hub for fetish and BDSM-related clothes, merchandise, and accessories, and it has launched a new line made from rubber from Thai rubber producers. It also provides an opportunity for conversation and awareness of sexual diversity. The discussion focuses on the lifestyle aspect of sex toys, pointing out that their illegality inhibits Thailand from "going premium."

Sastra noted that law and societal readiness are essential, and everyone must grasp the purpose of sex toys. As a result, an understanding of sexual diversity is required, as the company operates as a community, connecting with a wide range of clients in addition to users. "We encounter customers with children and families of various ages, ranging from 20 to 80. This allows us to understand what it was like in the past and how to adapt to modern times and what is appropriate," Sastra added.

He further explained that the illegality of sex toys in Thailand has led to changes in storefront design to facilitate storage or relocation during inspections. In contrast, stores in Tokyo, Japan**,** are decorated freely. Therefore, we want legalization, but with strict control and a standardized legal process that all brands must follow. All products should be openly disclosed, without secrecy. Sastra cited Taiwan as an example, where sex toy inventors and manufacturers have laboratories to study materials, with user testing to collect statistics. As a result, modern sex toys often have a cute, decorative image, rather than scary objects, unlike what we might have imagined before.

Thailand has previously presented a draft change to Section 287 of the Criminal Code that would decriminalize adult media. The law proposes allowing anyone above the age of 20 to freely view pornographic content. Of the 429 members of parliament present, 145 supported the notion and 284 opposed it, resulting in the bill's rejection. Some political parties argue that adult media should not be legalized just yet, citing the fact that it is still widely available despite current limitations. They feel that if this bill is implemented, adult material will become even more accessible to children and youth.

Korn Chatikavanij argued that law enforcement is critical, and individuals have the right to be concerned, as prevention has never been effective. He stated that sex toys should not be prohibited because they are a personal right, but everything has consequences. Even alcohol and cigarettes are obvious examples; despite some legal restrictions, we cannot stop young people from purchasing them.

"Rainbow Economy and Soft Power in Thailand"

Korn Chatikavanij highlighted the economic angle, claiming that these products had marketable brands due to Thailand's natural "sexiness." He sees them as a source of soft power for the country, increasing economic potential because Thailand already has the raw ingredients. The good influence is on the lawful growth of Thailand's rubber sector. However, morality and culture are key concerns; it is believed that it should not be interpreted as promoting sex. It is tough to determine what should be supported and what should be permitted to unfold naturally.

Sastra went on to say that he and other entrepreneurs have discussed the "Pink Economy" with the administration, with an emphasis on entertainment as a selling point for the country. The government has not provided clarification. They've sought aid with venues, staff, and coordination, as their attempts to organize things themselves have been met with opposition. "We find it tough because the government wants us to retain the image of a party, but a party is a party, and entrepreneurs have no control over it. You can take off your shirt, but only in our allowed area," he explained.

Korn concluded that whether or not entrepreneurs register for legalization should be another option. If registration is valuable, it should be pursued. This is not a must for anyone in this profession. As for the sex toy sector, promoting its growth would not be damaging because the worldwide market is vast, giving a chance for Thailand, a producer of high-quality, standardized items. Furthermore, it provides income to rubber farmers. He believes there is no reason to impose limitations or restrictions. "The only thing we need to be concerned about is accessibility, since we do not want our youth to have easy access to it. I want to manage things in a way that has no detrimental influence on society as a whole, without managing public areas; all that is required are corporate regulations."

Sastra concluded by saying that Thailand is already doing well, and what the government can do now is to implement taxes that are appropriate for the reality of how far businesses have advanced. Setting a high tax ceiling that forces everyone to comply may not be the right approach. Therefore, entrepreneurs are already ready to meet standards. Open-mindedness and learning within society are crucial. “As for young people, if we teach them what they already know, they will be able to develop it further. We shouldn't block them; we must give them opportunities to learn. If we are afraid to teach them or don't provide opportunities for learning, they will never have the chance to see new aspects of the world.”

Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong