Despite recent safety concerns, Thailand's tourism industry is expecting significant growth over Chinese New Year. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) forecasts 1.35 million arrivals from January 24 to February 2, a 10% increase on last year, generating around 40.66 billion baht in revenue.

Chinese visitors are expected to make up 287,000 of these arrivals, a 7% rise from last year, contributing approximately 8.8 billion baht. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatpaibool attributed this growth to Thailand's visa exemption policy and competitive airfares.

Increased aviation capacity is also driving the surge, with East Asian seat availability up 5% and ASEAN routes rising 8%. Seat capacity from China has grown by 13%, with 790,000 seats now available. Seven new flight routes connecting Chinese and Taiwanese cities to Thai destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui will operate during the festival.

To maximise the influx, Thailand is hosting special events, including a lighting ceremony on Bangkok's Yaowarat Road from January 19 to February 9 to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties with China. The CentralWorld shopping mall will feature TAT promotional booths from January 28 to February 2.

Bookings are up 21% year-on-year, with East Asian markets leading with a 33% increase. China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong are the largest sources of advance bookings.

Despite recent negative reports, including the kidnapping of a Chinese actor by a call centre gang, the impact on tourism has been minimal. Thapanee noted that the situation will be reassessed, while Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotel Association, confirmed there has been no significant effect on hotel bookings. Although some group tours have cancelled, solo traveller bookings are increasing.