Thailand golden visa
'It will drive GDP growth, reduce public debt, spur domestic consumption,' Thaksin was quoted as saying at the 'Unlocking Thailand's Future' conference in Bangkok. 'It's new, fresh money, and so worth pursuing.' The golden visa would allow eligible foreigners to reside in Thailand long-term and purchase property, boosting the real estate sector. Thaksin said the funds collected could be allocated to improve the education system for Thai citizens. He also urged Airports of Thailand Pcl (AOT) to raise its passenger service charge by up to 300 baht ($9.22) per traveller—a 40% increase from the current rate. According to him, the move could generate an additional 40 billion baht annually to support infrastructure improvements and establish Thailand as a regional aviation hub. 'AOT should be an economic driver in terms of being an aviation hub, cargo center, and aircraft maintenance center, which can drive the economy much further,' he said. Thailand's economy has struggled with slow growth, expanding less than 2% on average over the past decade. Projections for 2025 range between 1.3% and 2.3%, amid high household debt and lower-than-expected tourist arrivals. The country also faces the possibility of US tariffs up to 36% on its exports. The Tourism Authority of Thailand recently revised its foreign arrivals forecast for 2025 to 35 million from 40 million. Chinese tourists, in particular, have declined—2.3 million visited in the first half of 2025, compared to 3.4 million a year earlier. Thaksin linked the decline to safety concerns following reports of a Chinese actor kidnapped to Myanmar via Thailand. 'I will insure any Chinese travelers to Thailand,' he said, suggesting a personal guarantee to restore trust. Thaksin, who remains influential in Thai politics through the ruling Pheu Thai Party led by his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, also faces legal proceedings in a decade-old royal defamation case. A ruling is expected next month. 'I am confident I will be found innocent,' he told the audience.
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