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The Star
13 hours ago
- The Star
Thai assaults on Malaysian tourists, hurting tourism confidence
BANGKOK: A stressed Thai national's assault on Malaysian tourists further shakes confidence in Thai tourism, with ATTA urging the government to clearly communicate safety measures, while the Tourism Ministry pledges full care and compensation until the victims can return home. Following the assault of two Malaysian tourists in Bangkok's Ratchadamri area on the night of Aug 7, 2025, in which a stressed Thai national reportedly poured thinner on the victims, the Thai tourism industry has voiced concern over the country's safety image. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, honorary president and senior advisor to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), described the incident as serious and deeply disturbing. He said it not only directly affects tourists' perceptions of Thailand but also damages the country's safety image in the eyes of the international community, particularly among Asean countries, which place strong emphasis on security. He noted that the attack would inevitably undermine confidence, especially if video footage or news of the incident spreads widely. Although it did not occur during the high season, it is a crucial test of how effectively state agencies can manage the situation and restore trust. Thailand, he said, must urgently strengthen tangible safety infrastructure for tourists and clearly communicate these measures in official foreign-language channels to reassure both travellers and foreign governments that their citizens can visit without fear. 'We have repeatedly talked about safety measures, but the problem lies in weak communication. We must deliver messages in multiple languages to foreign media, embassies and the platforms that international audiences use. Proactive communication from relevant agencies, such as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and even the Tourist Police, is essential, and they must work closely together,' he said. He added that the swift arrest of the suspect, coupled with the Tourism Ministry's public updates assessing the situation and clarifying the cause, was a step in the right direction. However, he stressed that Thailand must continue communicating clearly to demonstrate how seriously the state treats crimes that affect tourists. Sisdivachr also addressed external factors affecting tourism, notably the recent appreciation of the baht to 32 per US dollar. He said that while the stronger currency may influence some travellers' decisions to visit Thailand, the impact was not yet severe as the exchange rate had not risen to an uncompetitive level. However, he said operators were hopeful that the Bank of Thailand, under its new governor from the private sector, would better understand business needs and implement policies to lower interest rates. Such a move, he said, would help ease cost pressures on tourism businesses that have yet to fully recover. 'We have raised this issue many times without any real response. This time, we hope to see concrete action, both in terms of lowering interest rates and attracting more foreign tourists, so that the industry can keep moving forward,' he said. Another key priority, Sisdivachr added, was developing new attractions to inject variety and appeal to repeat visitors seeking fresh experiences. He noted that many travellers were now choosing Vietnam for its new tourist spots and more convenient transport links, much as Thai tourists were increasingly visiting China for its interconnected and well-developed attractions. Thailand, he stressed, needed to ensure that its secondary destinations were genuinely accessible, safe and rich in compelling stories. He recommended that the TAT and local administrative organisations work together to expand existing thematic routes so they link effectively across multiple provinces. This, he said, should be paired with investment in transport infrastructure such as roads, public transport and intercity connections, to create attractive new options for travellers. Natthriya Thaweevong, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, expressed her deepest condolences on behalf of the Thai government and all relevant agencies over the assault on two Malaysian tourists in Bangkok. She said the authorities were committed to providing full medical care and assistance until the victims could be safely repatriated. The incident on Aug 7 involved an unemployed Thai national who, reportedly suffering from hunger and mental distress, attacked the two Malaysian tourists in the Ratchadamri area by dousing them with flammable liquid and setting them alight. 'This was a deeply saddening incident for both Thais and Malaysians,' Natthriya said, adding that Malaysia remains one of Thailand's top source markets for international tourists. Both victims remain hospitalised. The male tourist sustained burns to 69% of his body and remains unconscious, while the female tourist suffered burns to 36% of her body, is conscious and able to communicate through writing. Doctors say their conditions are stable and gradually improving, though the male victim's injuries are more severe. The government has discussed initial compensation with the victims' relatives, who will also check the victims' travel insurance coverage with AirAsia. Relatives have expressed a wish to transfer the patients to Malaysia for further treatment, but doctors have advised against immediate travel. The male victim is expected to remain in hospital for about one month, and the female for two to three weeks. The ministry is coordinating with the Tourist Police to assist the victims' relatives, providing transport to and from their accommodation and responding to requests for support. Under the government's compensation scheme for foreign tourists, assistance will be considered on a case-by-case basis: Medical expenses will be reimbursed based on receipts, up to a maximum of 500,000 baht, with any insurance payouts deducted. An additional 50,000 baht will be provided for emotional distress, bringing the total to no more than 550,000 baht. The government will also review whether further assistance is appropriate. Natthriya stressed that authorities must also determine the attacker's true motive in order to improve risk assessments and strengthen tourist protection measures. - The Nation/ANN
Bangkok Post
01-08-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Chinese arrivals may hit 9m in 2026
Chinese tourist arrivals should rebound to 9 million in 2026, driven by large groups, positive momentum from chartered flights and global business events that reinforce Thailand's image as a safe destination, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta). Atta president Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said Chinese arrivals could climb to 9 million next year, approaching the 2019 peak of 10.9 million, mainly driven by three factors. He said chartered flights should start to increase this year thanks to the subsidy programme offering 350,000 baht per flight, as Atta already secured deals with travel agents in Chongqing, Lanzhou and Hangzhou during its roadshow this week. This programme alone should attract 150,000 Chinese tourists, said Mr Thanapol, along with 75,000 travellers from subsidies for the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions segment, which are typically high spenders. Large incentive groups choosing Bangkok as their destination should also help revive confidence, notably the Amway 2026 incentive meeting in March and April 2026, with 13,000 delegates joining, he said. "These large-scale groups from China will play a key role in restoring travel confidence among Chinese tourists and will help attract more independent travellers back to Thailand," said Mr Thanapol, adding this estimate assumes no further negative incidents. On Oct 12-18, 2026, Thailand is scheduled to host the World Bank Governors' Meeting, an international event that could help elevate confidence in Thailand's safety, infrastructure and capacity as a leading tourism and business destination, he said. Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of Atta, said the momentum from the chartered flights subsidy should continue, increasing traffic to Thailand by five times and generating a total of 1 million tourists of the 9-million goal next year. Zheng Wei, owner of Gansu Junhe Cultural Tourism, a major tour operator in Lanzhou, said there's strong interest in the chartered and incentive subsidies. "We expect the real impact of these measures to show starting from November and December. If no major negative incidents occur, Chinese tourism to Thailand could recover to 70-80% of pre-pandemic levels by late next year," he said. Mr Zheng said the emergence of Vietnam serves as a temporary substitute based on lower costs, but it still lacks the quality and appeal of Thailand. "Safety concerns are easing. If Thailand handles this well, Chinese tourists will definitely return. Vietnam is not a true competitor due to its substandard services. Most Chinese tourists don't repeat their visits," he said. The TAT & Atta Roadshow to China this week is aimed at blunting the sharp plunge of the Chinese market by 34.1% in the first half. However, the TAT has yet to set 9 million as a target and remains cautious in assessing the situation.
Bangkok Post
30-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Agents upbeat on Chinese market
Chinese tourist arrivals have already passed their low point, and tour agents are showing renewed confidence in Thailand despite safety concerns fuelled by border conflicts and a recent market shooting, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said while concerns persist, the situation is showing signs of improvement as Chinese visitor arrivals appear to have passed their nadir. Earlier this year, Chinese arrivals plunged to 5,600 per day, which marked the lowest point, said Ms Thapanee. The Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta) and TAT are holding a roadshow this week in Chongqing, Lanzhou and Hangzhou, China. More than 50 Thai tourism operators are participating in business matching and promotional sessions with around 1,000 Chinese tour operators, hoping to lift travel confidence and stimulate chartered flight bookings to both main and second-tier cities in Thailand via the government's subsidy programme. Speaking at the China roadshow, Ms Thapanee said arrivals now average 13,000-15,000 per day, still below the pre-pandemic level of 30,000, but improving steadily. "Chongqing has more than 31 million residents and is our focus due to its strong purchasing power and direct air connections to Thailand. This aligns with our strategy to attract high-spending segments," she said. Key challenges affecting Chinese tourism to Thailand remain with the lingering effects of Covid-19, the 2018 Phuket boat tragedy, and news reports on kidnapping scams. The recent border issues with Cambodia and the Or Tor Kor shooting have also intensified scrutiny, said Ms Thapanee. Despite these setbacks, Wang Qiang, deputy general manager of Chongqing Ruitu International Travel Agency, said tourism confidence remains intact. "Most major tourist sites remain unaffected. We are seeing increasing interest in chartered flights to Samui and Trang," he said. "TAT subsidies are helpful, even if Vietnam's short-term incentives are more generous. In the long run, Chinese travellers still prefer Thailand for its charm, variety, natural beauty, and better infrastructure." Mr Wang said the rise of Gen Z travellers is another key factor, as they are well-informed and research everything from online sources, pushing them to adapt. To support the recovery, the TAT launched the "Thailand Summer Blast -- China & Overseas Market Stimulus Plan", allocating 750 million baht to subsidise up to 1,000 chartered flights from Chinese and other cities from July 2025 to July 2026. Airlines receive 350,000 baht per flight to bring tourists to major cities including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pattaya (via U-tapao), Krabi and Koh Samui. Sake Nopthaisong, consul-general at the Thai consulate in Chengdu, acknowledged the impact of human trafficking concerns. "China has been grappling with scams and trafficking. Some individuals sought refuge in Thailand, leading to perceptions that Thailand was involved. We've worked closely with Chinese authorities to return those individuals, reaffirming our commitment to safety and cooperation," he said. Li Pei, deputy manager of Qian You Trip, an outbound agency, said the recent viral news about the Or Tor Kor incident was a concern. "We plan to resume new tour promotions in October, after things settle down," she said. As of July 27, Thailand recorded 19 million foreign arrivals this year generating 880 billion baht.
Bangkok Post
25-07-2025
- Bangkok Post
Chinese travel agents call for clarity
Chinese travel agents have already quizzed Thai tour operators about the clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border over concerns the situation may impact their clients' travel plans, says the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta), while Thai AirAsia has observed a surge in Thai passengers on its flights serving Cambodian cities. Following clashes on Thursday, which caused at least 13 Thai civilian fatalities, some countries, including the United Kingdom (UK) and the US, issued a warning to their citizens to avoid border areas in the provinces of Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Surin and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) issued a statement assuring the safety and security of tourists as the top priority of relevant government authorities. The statement advised travellers to avoid certain areas in seven provinces in the East and Northeast, including the provinces of Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi and Trat. Atta president Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said the incident would undeniably hamper tourism for the remainder of this year, but the scale of the impact would depend on how long the conflict persists. 'Even though most Chinese agents are still confident that major tourism cities remain robust, the problem is with Chinese tourists' perception following media reports and whether they will delay their trips' said Mr Thanapol. At Atta's roadshow scheduled to visit Chongqing, Lanzhou and Hangzhou next week, the association plans to use the opportunity to clear up any misinformation and reassure the Chinese that Thailand is safe to visit. Another focus is informing tour agents they stand to benefit from joining the Thai government's stimulus programme. Mr Thanapol said the dispute will require the government to work much harder to secure 5 million Chinese tourist arrivals this year, which is the state's minimum target. Sarawadee Thiamprasert, managing director of At Ubon Travel, a tour operator based in Ubon Ratchathani, said a tour group of more than 20 domestic tourists maintained their bookings scheduled for next week, but they did ask the company for clarification of the situation. Mrs Sarawadee said popular attractions were not located near the Cambodian border, but the Mun River and Pha Taem National Park were quite close to the border with Laos. She said the risky areas were mainly located within agricultural zones and neighbourhoods, where the authorities already helped Thais to evacuate to safe areas. In addition, Ubon Ratchathani airport is operating as normal. Last year Ubon Ratchathani received 3.8 million visitors generating 9.1 billion baht in revenue. If the conflict persists, tourism revenue might contract from last year, attributed to weak travel confidence, slow economic growth stemming from the conflict, and sluggish border trade, said Mrs Sarawadee. As of July 24, Cambodian arrivals had plunged by 27% year-on-year to 229,240. Meanwhile, Thai AirAsia reported its routes serving Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, each operating two flights a day, had an average load factor of 80% and 90%, respectively, during the first half of 2025. During July 21-25, the airline secured a high load factor, with the number of Thai passengers surging, prompting it to use Airbus A321neos with 236 seats rather than Airbus A320s to accommodate more passengers.
Bangkok Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Impact of tariff hikes on tourism likely to unfold next year
Tourism operators view the US's tariff policy as indirectly hampering Thai tourism in the form of reduced spending, but this impact is not expected to unfold until next year, as many tourists have already booked trips for the upcoming high season. They have also suggested the Thai government use this opportunity to upgrade the country's tourism infrastructure, develop new attractions to remain competitive with Vietnam, and accelerate the 350-million-baht chartered flight incentive to prevent a freefall in arrivals. Rangsiman Kingkaew, president of the Tourism Council of Phuket, said the economies of major inbound markets to Thailand, such as South Korea and Japan, had been stunned by the US's latest tariff rates, although there's still room for negotiation until the end of this month. Trade tensions between the US and China also persist, which could result in higher living expenses and increased prices of goods for US residents, leading to a reduction in spending and a slowdown in travel, said Mr Rangsiman. He said domestic tourism, a key driver during the low season, is also being hampered by the 36% tariff rate imposed on Thailand, as the policy would hinder the export sector and overall GDP growth. "These developments will undeniably impact the global tourism industry," said Mr Rangsiman. "However, the major tourism slowdown might occur next year, as many tourists, especially long-haul travellers, have already booked their trips to Thailand and Phuket for the high season." He said that during this period of uncertainty, the government should take the opportunity to address weaknesses in the tourism sector. These include addressing the country's image in relation to safety and incomplete infrastructure projects. Mr Rangsiman said Thailand's rivals, such as Vietnam, have been heavily investing in new attractions and infrastructure, but Thailand's tourism development has been inconsistent and continues to rely primarily on its existing charms. Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta), said slow forward bookings, particularly from short-haul and Chinese markets, during the second half of this year could be further affected by the severe US tariffs imposed on multiple countries. The short-haul market is a vital source for Thai tourism, typically accounting for over 70% of inbound visitors. Mr Thanapol said it was very disappointing that the subsidy for the chartered flight programme under the 750-million-baht "Summer Blast China & Overseas Market" had not yet been officially launched. He said many Chinese travel agents had asked Atta about this project as they are reluctant to launch tour packages to Thailand at present. "Other countries have been consistently promoting inbound tourism, notably China, which has extended visa-free entry to more nations and continues to offer promotional travel packages," he said.
