In a move to transform Thailand into an irresistible haven for tourists and shoppers alike, the government has unleashed a five-pronged plan that could turn the Land of Smiles into a duty-free paradise.

 

Say farewell to arrival duty-free shops as Thailand aims to redefine its status as the ultimate destination for globetrotters and shopaholics.

 

Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke revealed yesterday, November 28, that the Cabinet has given the nod to five strategic measures outlined by the Ministry of Finance. The primary focus is to elevate Thailand’s allure as a premier tourism and shopping hub.

“The government’s economic stimulation policies are steering Thailand towards becoming a tourism and shopping powerhouse.”

 

by Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Full story: The Thaiger 2023-11-29

 

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Desperate times call for desperate measures! 

Nice, value shoppers and tourists over your own citizens ...

"The primary focus is to elevate Thailand’s allure as a premier tourism and shopping hub."

While at the same time (for example)  keeping exorbitant taxes on imported motor vehicles.

Unless the price of goods is reduced significantly then this will have absolutely no pull on your average tourist who only buys duty free out of a sense of boredom........and who the hell shops on arrival???

46 minutes ago, webfact said:

Say farewell to arrival duty-free shops

 

King Power on Line 1, urgent call.

 

 

Make Phuket a duty free island drop the tax on beers and wine, could all be done in one day, 

A long monkey doll and a toblerone.  Hold me back it's time to go to the duty free area.

After flying and staying awake for at least 24 hours, I only get off the plane, get to a hotel

or somewhere with a bed, and collapse for at least 8 hours. I never shop on arrival.

I guess if you are from a neighbour coutry and fly one or 2 hours you would have energy to shop.

15 hours ago, ChipButty said:

Make Phuket a duty free island drop the tax on beers and wine, could all be done in one day, 

Nothing gets done in one day! 😏

"....The fourth measure throws open the doors of night entertainment venues in key tourist districts for extended hours, promising a nightlife experience like never before"  So not like it was before they stopped these venues from being open 24/7? Those days (and nights) were fun times!

Always has been "duty free" for tourists, sort off.

 

I remember, donkeys years ago, buying a zip drive here in Pantip Plaza and reclaiming the tax at Don Muang when I left - very straightforward, receipt and passport.

19 hours ago, 2baht said:

Desperate times call for desperate measures! 

And boy is Thailand desperate.