Thailand eyes US$600mil tourism boost with travel subsidies
The measure reflects the growing reliance on domestic travellers as the sector struggles with weak international demand and higher oil costs.
Bangkok, Thailand is planning to inject more than 20 billion baht (US$602 million) into tourism with a domestic travel stimulus package, aiming to support an industry weakened by lower foreign arrivals and rising energy costs. Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul announced that the government will spend around 4 billion baht on subsidies for hotel stays and other tourism expenses.
The targeted subsidies will cover 1 million entitlements and include accommodation discounts of up to 2,000 baht per person, as well as co-payment vouchers for dining, spa, and shopping experiences. The subsidies are scheduled to run from November 1 to December 15, with a pause during the New Year peak period and resuming from January 16 to the end of February.
Hotel industry representatives welcomed the support but questioned its timing, suggesting it could encourage travel during the traditionally high season. Industry experts are divided on the program's impact, with some believing it may increase domestic travel sentiment but questioning its ability to significantly boost economic growth.
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- Thailand eyes US$600mil tourism boost with travel subsidies freemalaysiatoday.com
