Travel Thailand Launches E-Ticket System in Marine Parks to Boost Revenue

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) in Thailand will unveil a new e-ticket system on 15 October across six key marine national parks, ushering in this year's tourist season. This initiative seeks to enhance transparency in entrance fee collection, aiming to increase park revenue by 10%.

 

During a press conference, Director-General Attapol Charoenchansa addressed longstanding corruption concerns within the ticketing process. Following a trial run since 2023 plagued by usability issues, the revamped system promises user-friendliness even in remote areas. Initially available in select marine parks, the programme has plans for expansion to the top national parks.

 

The revenue from entrance fees significantly supports forest conservation and tourism sustainability. Currently, income distribution designates 5% to local administrative organisations, 20% to individual park management, 60% to conservation, and 15% reserves for emergencies.

 

 

 

Between October 1 and April 20, Thai national parks recorded a visitor increase of 2.36%, contributing to a 2.6% rise in revenue totalling 1.55 billion baht. Notably, marine parks made up almost 66% of these earnings, with Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park leading at 450 million baht.

 

The e-ticket system aims to curb revenue losses and corruption. Attapol highlighted the importance of this income for their conservation mission and sustainable tourism advocacy. Future ambitions include using additional revenue to support communities within forest zones.

 

The new e-ticket roll-out will commence with marine parks such as Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi (Krabi), Ao Phang Nga (Phang Nga), and others, marking a significant step forward in Thailand’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-29

 

 

[Peabody]

3 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Currently, income distribution designates 5% to local administrative organisations, 20% to individual park management, 60% to conservation, and 15% reserves for emergencies.

Love to see an accounting of these funds over the last decade or two!

[stevenl]

At the moment for phi phi, customers pay 200 baht and get a ticket for that. What's not transparent about that?