Thailand Tourism Authority aims for 9 million Chinese visitors in 2025, targeting 90% of pre-pandemic levels, as part of the 50th anniversary of ties with China.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its 2025 goal for Chinese visitor arrivals, now aiming for 9 million instead of the previously set 8.8 million, with an ambition to reach at least 90% of the pre-pandemic numbers, according to TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool, speaking on Tuesday.
In 2019, prior to the pandemic, Thailand saw a record 11 million Chinese visitors. Thapanee emphasized that achieving this target would also mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and China, a milestone set for next year.
For 2023, the TAT anticipates 7.3 million Chinese tourists, generating an estimated 450 billion baht in revenue for local businesses. As of November 24, Thailand had welcomed 6.09 million Chinese visitors, making China the largest source of foreign tourists among the 31.31 million international arrivals.
Thapanee acknowledged that external factors, such as storms in China and flooding in Thailand, had impacted Chinese tourist numbers during September and October.
Meanwhile, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong led a Thai delegation to the China International Travel Mart 2024 (CITM) in Shanghai from November 22-24. The event provided an opportunity for Thai tourism operators to connect with Chinese partners and showcase their offerings. The minister also requested Chinese authorities to assist in communicating Thailand’s safety measures for foreign visitors, including the use of advanced AI technology.
Written by Travel And Tour World
