Tourism Thailand Eyes Tax Boost for Low Season Tourism Revival

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

In a bid to invigorate Thailand's tourism sector during the low season, the Finance Ministry is considering introducing tax measures, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. The ministry is engaged in discussions with the Tourism and Sports Ministry about potential additional incentives beyond the existing "Tiew Thai Khon La Khrueng" (half-half) co-payment scheme.

 

As the government seeks to enhance consumer spending, Mr Julapun highlighted the critical need for increased support during the low season, even as the tourism industry shows promise leading up to the high season at the year's end.

 

Mr Julapun expressed optimism that the recent cabinet reshuffle would bolster the tourism sector, particularly enhancing tourist safety—a key factor in strengthening confidence in Thailand as a travel destination.

 

Currently, the "Tiew Thai Khon La Khrueng" scheme has allocated 500,000 entitlements since July 11, with over 400,000 still available. This reflects the need for heightened engagement strategies to maximise the scheme's potential.

 

Previously, the Revenue Department rolled out tax incentives to boost domestic tourism, especially targeting visits to secondary cities during the low season. From May 1 to November 30, 2024, individuals could leverage personal income tax incentives for travel within 55 designated secondary tourist provinces. These incentives allowed for deductions on actual expenses for tour packages, hotel stays, resorts, or homestays, with a cap of 15,000 Thai Baht. Importantly, only electronic tax invoices or receipts were eligible for these deductions.

 

For businesses, corporate income tax incentives during the same period encouraged organising domestic seminars. Companies could classify costs related to seminar room rentals, accommodation, transport, or related tour services as deductible business expenses. If the seminar took place in a secondary tourism province or a specially designated area, businesses could double the deduction; otherwise, a 1.5 times deduction applied.

 

These incentives were contingent on providing comprehensive e-tax invoices and receipts. However, this programme is projected to lead to a tax revenue shortfall of approximately 1.7 billion Thai Baht.

 

The government is poised to review these measures to ensure they effectively stimulate low-season tourism while maintaining fiscal balance. As discussions advance, the focus remains on crafting a strategy that boosts tourism and supports local economies without compromising financial viability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-29

 

 

[Pouatchee]

taxes are taxsin's thaksin's favorite sandbox... sretta startes the ball roling... and it just keeps on rolling...

[Will B Good]

14 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

Mr Julapun expressed optimism that the recent cabinet reshuffle would bolster the tourism sector, particularly enhancing tourist safety

 

I really don't know what to say....that can be posted.

[JoePai]

to enhance consumer spending

 

And the consumers can pay with buttons ?

[carlyai]

My wife enquired with a hotel about the scheme, they said they applied to join the scheme but never got a reply.

[chawbdurian]

13 minutes ago, carlyai said:

My wife enquired with a hotel about the scheme, they said they applied to join the scheme but never got a reply.

big playas only