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Thailand experienced a decline in foreign visitors in 2025, welcoming 32.9 million, a 7.23% drop from the previous year, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. This decrease also led to a 4.71% reduction in international tourism revenue, totaling 1.53 trillion baht. The decline comes as international travel patterns shifted and economic factors played a role.

The top five international markets for Thailand were Malaysia, China, India, Russia, and South Korea, with 4.5 million, 4.4 million, 2.4 million, 1.8 million, and 1.5 million arrivals respectively. Despite the downturn in foreign visitors, domestic travel saw an increase, with Thais making 202.37 million trips nationwide, up 2.7% from 2024. Domestic tourism generated 1.16 trillion baht, a 3.69% rise from the previous year.

Tourism Authority of Thailand governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool remains optimistic, setting ambitious targets for 2026. The agency aims to attract 36.7 million foreign visitors and increase domestic trips to 205 million, aiming for overall tourism revenue growth of 7%, totaling 2.78 trillion baht. These goals will focus on boosting travel frequency and increasing traveler spending.

Looking forward, strategies will focus on enhancing Thailand's appeal to both local and international tourists. Initiatives may include marketing campaigns, infrastructure improvements, and new partnerships to entice travelers. The positive trends in domestic travel provide a cushion and offer insights for potential growth strategies moving forward, reported Bangkok Post.

Key Takeaways

• Foreign visitors to Thailand fell by 7.23% in 2025 compared to 2024.

• Domestic travel rose, helping to partially offset the decline in international arrivals.

• 2026 targets include 36.7 million foreign visitors and 205 million domestic trips.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-05

 

 

Key Takeaways

• Foreign visitors to Thailand fell by 7.23% in 2025 compared to 2024.

I envisage another drop this year...

Those who have come, conquered and have seen it all... some will repeat, many will seek other destinations.

3 hours ago, hotchilli said:

Key Takeaways

• Foreign visitors to Thailand fell by 7.23% in 2025 compared to 2024.

I envisage another drop this year...

Those who have come, conquered and have seen it all... some will repeat, many will seek other destinations.

True..and the Malaysians is just border crossings because they work or have business in Thailand.