Thailand’s new Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, plans to reinstate the previously postponed 300-baht tourism ($8.2) tax by 2025 to boost tourism revenue, aiming for at least three trillion baht this year.
Thienthong intends to implement the tax, which was shelved under the previous administration led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, as part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s tourism sector. He expressed disappointment that the last Minister did not advance this initiative but assured it would be prioritized, VisaGuide.World reports.
I believe the collection of tourism fees benefits the tourism industry since the revenue can be used for the development of infrastructure and attractions, as well as to ensure tourist safety.
The proposed fee structure has stayed the same since it was first suggested five years ago:
- air travelers are charged to pay 300 baht ($8.2),
- while those arriving by land or sea will pay 150 baht (around $5)
Exempt Groups From Thailand’s Tourism Fee
However, certain groups in Thailand will be exempt from this fee, including children under two, transit passengers, diplomatic passport holders, and individuals with work permits. The Minister mentioned that while he could have pushed to implement the tax by the fourth quarter of this year, he chose to take a more measured approach instead.
This initiative comes after the government, under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, had planned to scrap the proposal on June 8 due to opposition from the private sector. Thavisin argued that while the fee might generate short-term income, allowing more tourists to enter without the charge could result in greater spending on shopping and activities.
A recent National Institute of Development Administration survey showed that two-thirds of respondents were dissatisfied with the government’s performance, highlighting a need for improved confidence in its ability to address national issues.
Thienthong also plans to explore tourism stimulus programs that proved beneficial during the pandemic, such as the We Travel Together scheme, which subsidizes hotel stays and flights, ensuring income reaches local communities.
Looking ahead to the upcoming high season, the Minister anticipates that events like marathons, Loy Krathong, and New Year celebrations will significantly achieve the three trillion baht revenue target from domestic and international markets. He reiterated the government’s long-term goal of generating three trillion baht from foreign tourism within its four-year term.