Tourism Sector Seeks Bt14bn Aid Amid Oil Crisis

Thailand’s tourism industry is seeking urgent government support worth 14 billion baht as an oil crisis threatens travel confidence ahead of Songkran. The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) met with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to propose measures including fuel allocation and financial assistance. The agency is expected to forward these recommendations to the government.

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FETTA, which represents multiple tourism-related organisations, said the sector is facing mounting pressure from energy shortages, rising travel costs and weakening consumer confidence. These issues are already influencing travel decisions among both domestic and international tourists. Some overseas markets, including Malaysia, have warned travellers to postpone trips, raising concerns that similar advisories could spread.

Tourism remains a key pillar of Thailand’s economy, valued at 2.7 trillion baht, contributing about 13% of GDP and supporting around 4 million jobs. FETTA described the oil shortage as not only an energy issue but a “crisis of confidence”, particularly during Songkran when most Thais travel by car. Uncertainty over fuel availability could lead to widespread trip cancellations, disrupting the entire tourism system.

The association stressed that fuel shortages pose a greater risk than price increases, as travellers unable to refuel could be stranded. It urged the government to resolve supply issues at petrol stations urgently to prevent further damage. Concerns are also growing that international tourists may hesitate to visit if the situation worsens.

FETTA proposed a series of measures to address the crisis, including dedicated oil quotas for tourism, special refuelling channels and controls on refining costs. To reduce air travel costs, it suggested a 1 billion baht scheme covering 1,000 charter flights per quarter, with subsidies of 350,000 baht per flight. Additional proposals include co-payment travel incentives, offering up to 3,000 baht for multi-province trips.

A major initiative, the “One Million Bus Trips Across Thailand” campaign, aims to promote group travel and reduce energy use. Groups of 20 people travelling for three days and two nights would receive 10,000 baht per bus, with a total budget of 10 billion baht targeting 1 million participants. FETTA also called on state agencies to prioritise domestic travel for meetings and seminars.

Further recommendations include enhanced safety measures, stricter tourist screening, overseas marketing campaigns and workforce development in language and digital skills. The group also urged controls on essential goods prices to ease cost pressures on businesses and consumers. A joint operations centre has been proposed to monitor the situation in real time and coordinate responses.

The Nation reported that the proposals will now be considered by the government as authorities assess how best to stabilise the tourism sector. Industry leaders warn that swift action is needed to restore confidence before the Songkran travel period. The outcome of these discussions could shape Thailand’s tourism performance throughout 2026.

Picture courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 22 Mar 2026