![]() “We’re affected by these Russians who came to run the whole tourism business,” Prayut Thongmusik, the president of the Phuket van drivers’ club, which represents 200 tourist minibus operators, told Al Jazeera. ![]() ![]() There have also been reports of Russian sex workers operating along the nightlife epicentre of Bangla Road, mainly for Russian clientele. Russian-only businesses have sprung up, often run through Russian language apps and staffed by people working illegally. Property prices have surged, which, although a boon to Thai owners and realtors, has made it more difficult for renters to find an affordable place on the island. The growing Russian presence is bringing rapid change. In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Phuket to inaugurate a new consulate to handle the surging number of citizens seeking work and leisure on the island. Many have secured long stay-visas, buying properties and establishing businesses to escape economic turmoil and the possibility of being conscripted following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. More than 400,000 Russians arrived on the Thai tourist island between January and July this year, according to authorities, double the number of visitors before Russia’s war against Ukraine. Bangkok, Thailand – A huge influx of Russians in Phuket is producing a backlash from locals, amid complaints of a booming Russian-only economy that covers everything from hair salons to taxi firms.
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