Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has announced that the 300-baht entry fee for foreign tourists arriving by air in Thailand will be proposed at the first Cabinet meeting of the new "Anutin 2" administration. The plan to charge travelers entering by land and sea a 150-baht fee has been set aside to avoid impacting cross-border commuters and day-trippers. This move is part of the government's broader strategy to boost tourism revenues.
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The proposed air arrival entry fee has sparked debate, with discussions focusing on the potential economic benefits against the need to maintain a welcoming image. Phiphat suggested renaming the fee to portray a more positive message, distancing it from its original term, "fee for stepping on the land." Additionally, the Bhumjaithai Party is planning a major reorganization of the civil service, merging the Ministry of Tourism and Sports with the Ministry of Culture into the new Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
Phiphat argues that combining these departments will enhance strategic alignment between tourism and cultural initiatives, key to Thailand’s economy. Concurrently, a new, dedicated Ministry of Sports will be established for focused management. These government restructures are anticipated to be completed within six months, with Sabida Thaiseth and Surasak Phancharoenworakul expected to lead the new ministries.
Looking forward, these changes aim to improve Thailand's tourism sector's efficiency and cultural integration, though the impact remains to be seen. Analysts will be watching closely as the government implements these plans, assessing their influence on international tourism and domestic perceptions, reported The Nation.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 26 Mar 2026