To get the AEC bandwagon rolling the PTA has several programmes underway. It has organised a photographic competition for residents and tourists using smartphones to send pictures of the island by SMS to tourist centres. In education, Phuket has established a unique hospitality tuition programme for children in grade 12 level to work in the industry during the week and attend college at weekends, thus helping to address a shortfall of around 4,000 hospitality workers. And, anticipating investment opportunities for local creative businesses under the AEC, the PTA is discussing with banks how to expedite access to funds should they wish to invest in another ASEAN country. “We are not doing a defensive strategy,” says Bhummikitti. “This is an offensive. We will not let other countries buy us out first. But we need the platform. It is still chicken and egg.” - See more at: http://phukettatler.com/making-it-work/#sthash.gs9oL3qh.dpuf