Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul made the announcement following police raids on Thai brothels last month.
“We want Thailand to be about quality tourism. We want the sex industry gone,” Kobkarn told Reuters.
“Tourists don’t come to Thailand for such a thing. They come here for our beautiful culture.”
Although prostitution is illegal in Thailand, the industry employs more than 120,000 sex workers.
Police receive payoffs from bar and club owners for not getting involved in what goes on inside. There are serious concerns over the effect a ban would have on these businesses.
Thailand is starting a month for women travellers campaign in August with female only immigration lanes and parking zones at international airports.
Other travel sectors are also being pursued.
