SUSTAINABILITY

Thailand Adopts Sustainability targets

Thailand's tourism industry is targeting long-haul travelers by enhancing airline connectivity and promoting sustainable practices. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is employing a dual approach to attract visitors from distant markets, focusing on increased flight options and responsible tourism.

At the recent Thailand Travel Mart+ (TTM+ 2024) in Khao Lak, international buyers explored diverse Thai tourism products offered by 430 sellers. Of the 425 participants in business matching sessions, 25.2% were from Europe, and 11.3% were from the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East.

TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, America, Middle East, and Africa) Siripakorn Cheawsamoot highlighted long-haul markets, saying they accounted for 28% of all international arrivals to Thailand.

From January to June 2024, the country has already seen 4,321,519 arrivals. TAT aims to welcome 9,938,300 visitor arrivals this year and targets tourism receipts of THB769,824 million.

Thailand will expand visa-free entry, allowing visitors from 93 countries to stay for up to 60 days, compared to the previous limit of 30 days. The greenlight for the longer visa-free stay deal awaits publication in the Royal Gazette. TAT is negotiating with airlines to offer long-stay airfares, which will be cheaper for tourists, with a minimum stay of 21 days or one month. Additional benefits include hotel bonus nights and value-added services for shopping and dining.