TOURISM

Thailand Tourism Booms with Visa-Free Access to Malaysia, India and China with 2.74 million international tourist arrivals.

Thailand, in Southeast Asia is renowned for its stunning tropical beaches, majestic royal palaces, ancient ruins, and exquisite temples. Bangkok, the bustling capital, seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with tranquil canalside communities and iconic temples like Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew.

Thailand's tourism industry has witnessed a significant surge, driven by the expansion of visa-free access for visitors from Malaysia, India, and China. As a result, the country welcomed 2.74 million international tourists in August 2024, further solidifying its position as a premier travel destination.

Tourist Arrivals on the Rise

June 2024 marked a notable increase in tourist arrivals for Thailand, reaching 2,740,372 compared to 2,633,464 in May 2024. Over the past two decades (1997-2024), Thailand has averaged 1,495,688.97 annual tourist arrivals, with a peak of 3,930,800 in December 2019 and a record low of zero in April 2020.

In the first half of 2024, Thailand welcomed a total of 17.5 million foreign visitors, demonstrating its enduring appeal as a top travel destination.

Thailand's Tourism Triumphs in Southeast Asia Thailand's strategic approach to tourism has propelled it to the forefront of the Southeast Asian region. In Q1 2024, the country welcomed a staggering 9.37 million international visitors, eclipsing Vietnam's total. This surge is attributed to policies like visa exemptions and medical coverage, attracting tourists from China, Malaysia, and Russia in droves.

Building on this momentum, Thailand aims to achieve 35 million visitors and $55 billion in tourism revenue by the end of 2024. This ambitious goal is well within reach, considering the nation's robust recovery from the pandemic, which saw visitor numbers soar from 11 million in 2022 to 28 million in 2023.

Thailand's Visa-Free Policy Boosts Indian Tourism

Thailand has witnessed a surge in Indian tourists since implementing a visa-free policy. The number of Indian visitors soared between November 2023 and May 2024, prompting the government to extend the waiver until November 2024. Despite a recent increase in India's outbound travel tax, Thailand aims to attract 2 million Indian tourists this year, surpassing its initial target.

Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi remain popular destinations, but interest in leisure, weddings, and business travel is also growing. To accommodate the influx, Thai authorities are working with airlines to expand capacity and routes.

Source : TTW