Travel Thailand Sees Tourism Uptick but Faces Competitive Challenges

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported a modest increase in foreign tourist arrivals, registering 11.84 million visitors this year—a 0.12% rise compared to the same period last year. Among these, tourists from China made up a significant portion, numbering 1.6 million. Despite recent challenges, including a substantial earthquake in Myanmar affecting Bangkok, Thailand remains optimistic, sticking to its forecast of 38 million foreign arrivals for the year.

 

However, industry insiders caution that Thailand could lose its competitive edge if it doesn't quickly adapt to China's bold tax policy enhancements. Notably, China is enticing more tourist spending by offering a generous 13% refund rate on tax-free shopping. This move may shift tourist preferences, prompting Thailand to assess its strategies to ensure it remains an attractive destination.

 

 

 

As the country balances current influxes with potential future constraints, the focus is on maintaining a thriving tourist industry capable of competing on the global stage. The next few months will be critical in determining how Thailand can address these competitive challenges and continue to draw visitors to its shores.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-29

 

 

[jcmj]

Knew this was coming as soon as the article came out that Thailand was losing their tourists to China, Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia and even Laos. 

[Gottfrid]

Hmmmm..... is the tourism up or down? One day up, another day down. 

[Jone500]

The recent scandals in Thailand have significantly reduced the number of Chinese tourists, prompting the country to greatly ease visa regulations.  especially those from the british isle, should stop mocking the Chinese.
 

[BayArea]

I read a lot of SE Asian news; I have never seen a country like Thailand where every other news article is about tourism and the need to attract more visitors by any means possible. 

[daejung]

I don't understand why the tourism authorities always focus on the number of arrivals. What really matters is the number of overnight stays.

[morrobay]

38 minutes ago, daejung said:

I don't understand why the tourism authorities always focus on the number of arrivals. What really matters is the number of overnight stays.

Yes , should be arrivals x days. 100x3days is less that 50x10days