Free Visa Policy Boosts Tourism in Chiang Mai

[webfact]

 

Chiang Mai's tourism sector is on the cusp of a significant upswing, courtesy of a forthcoming visa-free policy for Chinese and Kazakhstani travelers, set to roll out in November 2023.

 

This strategic maneuver, endorsed by the Thai Cabinet on September 25, 2023, is poised to yield palpable results, chiefly by bolstering tourist numbers and airline arrivals, reported Thai Rath.

 

Supamit Kijjapiphat, President of the Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association, commended the government's decision, affirming that the visa-free initiative is primed to invigorate tourism. It stands as a compelling enticement for the specific target audience to explore Thailand, with an expected upswing of 20-30% in Chinese tourist arrivals.

 

Chiang Mai is making preparations to embrace a surge in visitors, especially during the upcoming high season. 

 

The Thai Tourism Authority (TAT) expects that this action will result in an extra 30,000 Chinese tourists visiting Chiang Mai between September and December 2023.

 

Simultaneously, TAT anticipates a 20-30% overall increase in Chinese tourists throughout 2023, translating to approximately 1 million visitors and a potential economic impact exceeding 200 billion Thai Baht. This move is poised to rejuvenate Chiang Mai's tourism industry, offering promising prospects for the region's economy.

 

Picture: Thai Rath

 

-- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-28

 

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[impulse]

Actual uptick in flight bookings, or just wishful thinking?

 

As I've said in other threads, I'd expect an October increase due to 2 overlapping holidays in China next month.  But whether it will last or not probably depends on how they report back to their friends and interweb followers back home.