Thailand's burgeoning health tourism industry could earn an impressive 100 billion baht (US$2.4 billion) over the next three years as the country expands facilities and teams up with neighbour Malaysia, health officials said.

Thai Health Minister Sudarat Keyuraphan said the kingdom could double its earnings in the lucrative sector and serve as Asia's health hub if it put in place measures aimed at boosting Thailand's recognition as one of the world's premier destinations for medical and health tourism.

"Health tourism is to draw foreign tourists and is expected to gain 100 billion baht over the next three years," Sudarat said in a ministry statement seen Sunday.