Latest news with #AssociationofThaiTravelAgents
The Star
03-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Thailand faces tourism crisis as foreign arrivals stagnate, minister urges urgent action
BANGKOK: Foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand are slowing to a critical level, prompting Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong to meet with the private sector to urgently address the issue and mitigate its impact. Sorawong on Wednesday (April 30) chaired a meeting to address safety concerns affecting international tourists visiting Thailand. The discussion involved key stakeholders from the private tourism sector, including the Association of Thai Travel Agents, the Thai Hotels Association, the Tourism Council of Thailand, and the Airlines Association of Thailand. Sorawong acknowledged that the current foreign tourism market in Thailand is reaching a critical point, with concern shared by both the ministry and private sector. However, he noted that the situation is still manageable if swift preventative action is taken. "Tourism remains the only strong engine driving our economy right now. We must act wherever we can," he said. Sorawong added that since the beginning of 2025, arrivals from some major markets—such as China—have declined. However, revenue from tourism has increased compared to the same period in 2024, indicating that tourists are spending more per person. From January 1 to April 27, Thailand recorded 11,841,911 foreign visitors—a minimal increase of just 0.12 per cent year-over-year—generating approximately 565.6 billion baht (US$17.07 billion) in revenue. The top five source countries were China (1.6 million), Malaysia (1.48 million), Russia (865,634), India (729,414), and South Korea (571,409). Sorawong emphasised that the main factor contributing to the decline is Thailand's perceived safety image. The ministry has been coordinating closely with the Tourist Police and other relevant agencies to ensure safety for all travelers. Although these efforts have not been widely publicised, he reassured the public that security measures are being implemented thoroughly. 'Many recent negative reports stem from misleading information, particularly when translated into other languages like Chinese and English,' he said. 'Not all reported issues reflect the real situation, and some involve scams targeting foreigners to work illegally in Thailand, not genuine tourists.' The minister also addressed concerns over high prices for tourism-related goods and services—like hotels, attractions, and flights—clarifying that the focus should be on value and fair pricing, not on being a "cheap" destination. While flight prices have risen globally, Thailand is exploring measures like cutting aviation fuel excise tax and increasing charter flights to offset costs for travelers. In conclusion, Sorawong warned that negative perceptions and misinformation could significantly damage Thailand's overall reputation, not just the tourism industry, especially as other countries—such as China—aggressively compete for international tourists. - The Nation/ANN
Euronews
19-03-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Samarkand's Silk Road legacy: From ancient murals to the revival of silk paper
Samarkand's Silk Road past is woven into its present. At Registan Square, once a bustling marketplace, researcher Armida Nazaryan explains its role as a trade hub between East and West. Nearby, at Afrasiab, restorer Marina Reutova unveils ancient Sogdian murals, offering a rare glimpse into 7th-century life. In Konigil, craftsman Zarif Mukhtarov revives the lost art of Samarkand Silk Paper, prized for its durability. Finally, in a local bakery, Gulchehra Nurriddinova shares the tradition of Samarkand's iconic flatbreads, baked in a scorching tandyr oven—an enduring symbol of Silk Road hospitality. Thailand has announced it will halve the number of days foreign tourists can stay in the country without a visa from 60 days to 30. The move comes as the Southeast Asian nation clamps down on travellers exploiting the waiver to carry out illegal business activities, tourism and sports minister Sorawong Thienthong said. Local travel and hospitality associations have also expressed concerns over visitors renting out accommodation without official authorisation. Since July 2024, passport holders from 93 countries have been allowed to stay in Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 60 days. By cutting the number of days to 30, the government says it hopes to curb misuse of the waiver period without damaging tourism. The Association of Thai Travel Agents has spoken out over concerns that an increasing number of foreigners are engaging in illicit jobs or business activities while claiming to be visiting for tourism purposes. The Thai Hotels Association raised another key issue that the 60-day stay was prompting a rise in the illegal letting of apartments to foreign visitors, the Bangkok Post reported. Thienthong said the measure has been agreed upon in principle by key ministries and an official date for the change will be announced soon. There will reportedly be possible exemptions or transitional measures for travellers who already have bookings in place. Thailand's 60-day stay has been a boon for many travellers wanting to undertake extended trips, including digital nomads and retirees. Around seven per cent of bookings to Thailand between January and February were for stays of over 22 nights, according to data from Forward Keys. Officials say the reduction in the number of visa-free days could see a small negative impact on inbound tourism demand. Tourism is a vital driver of Thailand's economy, and other challenges are also facing the industry. 'The potential policy move adds to a growing list of factors weighing on the sector [...], along with Chinese tourists' security concerns and tighter travel budgets among North American and European travellers,' Bloomberg Intelligence analysts wrote in a report this week. Thai authorities are aiming for foreign tourist arrivals to exceed 40 million in 2025, which would break the country's 2019 record. Between January and mid-March, Thailand's visitor numbers were already up 3.9 per cent from 2024.
The Independent
19-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Thailand announces plans to cut visa-free stays to 30 days
Thailand plans to halve the number of days it allows foreign tourists to stay in the country without a visa as part of a major crackdown those exploiting the scheme. Since last summer, the southeast Asian country has allowed tourists from 93 nations, up from 57, to visit Thailand for a period of up to 60 days. The new measures were part of an effort to boost visitors by doubling the stay limits. However, tourism and sports minister Sorawong Thienthong has announced that various ministers have agreed in principle that this should now be reduced to 30 days, the Bangkok Post reported. Additional details will be discussed before formally announcing the change to the visa-free period for tourists. The reduction discussion has come amid tourism operators, such as the Association of Thai Travel Agents, expressing concern that there is a growing number of foreigners illegally working or conducting business in the country, the publication reported. The Thai Hotels Association has also voiced their concern that the 60-day stay in part has led to an increase in accommodation being illegally rented out to tourists. Natthriya Thaweevong, the chairperson of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, which operates under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, said, according to the outlet, that the ministry has instructed the Tourism Department to enforce the Tourism Business and Tourist Guide Act more seriously. She said the department and the Tourism Police have consistently investigated illicit activities taking popular tourist places like Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and Bangkok. So far, the department has revoked the licenses of 40 companies in 2024 that were found guilty of secretly changing directions and shareholders, resulting in disqualification from operating tourism businesses. In Phuket, 15 tour companies' licenses have also been revoked, Ms Thaweevong added, with another case finding that a Thai committee of a tour company was registered under five different company names. Bloomberg analysts said that the move to reduce the number of days would have a 'low-single-digit negative impact' on the overall inbound tourism demand, as data from ForwardKeys suggests as much as seven per cent of total bookings to Thailand in January and February were for stays of 22 nights or more. 'The potential policy move adds to a growing list of factors weighing on the sector… along with Chinese tourists' security concerns and tighter travel budgets among North American and European travellers,' the analysts said in a report Tuesday. Between January and 16 March, Thailand welcomed 8.3 million foreign tourists, up 3.9 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Yahoo
Thailand's visa-free stay will soon be cut to 30 days. Here's what it means for tourists
Thailand has announced it will halve the number of days foreign tourists can stay in the country without a visa from 60 days to 30. The move comes as the Southeast Asian nation clamps down on travellers exploiting the waiver to carry out illegal business activities, tourism and sports minister Sorawong Thienthong said. Local travel and hospitality associations have also expressed concerns over visitors renting out accommodation without official authorisation. Since July 2024, passport holders from 93 countries have been allowed to stay in Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 60 days. By cutting the number of days to 30, the government says it hopes to curb misuse of the waiver period without damaging tourism. The Association of Thai Travel Agents has spoken out over concerns that an increasing number of foreigners are engaging in illicit jobs or business activities while claiming to be visiting for tourism purposes. The Thai Hotels Association raised another key issue that the 60-day stay was prompting a rise in the illegal letting of apartments to foreign visitors, the Bangkok Post reported. Thienthong said the measure has been agreed upon in principle by key ministries and an official date for the change will be announced soon. There will reportedly be possible exemptions or transitional measures for travellers who already have bookings in place. Thailand's 60-day stay has been a boon for many travellers wanting to undertake extended trips, including digital nomads and retirees. Around seven per cent of bookings to Thailand between January and February were for stays of over 22 nights, according to data from Forward Keys. Officials say the reduction in the number of visa-free days could see a small negative impact on inbound tourism demand. Related Where was The White Lotus season 3 filmed? Our pick of Thailand's must-visit filming locations How the rise of regenerative travel is changing Thailand's elephant tourism for the better Tourism is a vital driver of Thailand's economy, and other challenges are also facing the industry. 'The potential policy move adds to a growing list of factors weighing on the sector [...], along with Chinese tourists' security concerns and tighter travel budgets among North American and European travellers,' Bloomberg Intelligence analysts wrote in a report this week. Thai authorities are aiming for foreign tourist arrivals to exceed 40 million in 2025, which would break the country's 2019 record. Between January and mid-March, Thailand's visitor numbers were already up 3.9 per cent from 2024.
Euronews
18-03-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Thailand plans to cut visa-free stays for foreign tourists to 30 days
Thailand has announced it will halve the number of days foreign tourists can stay in the country without a visa from 60 days to 30. The move comes as the Southeast Asian nation clamps down on travellers exploiting the waiver to carry out illegal business activities, tourism and sports minister Sorawong Thienthong said. Local travel and hospitality associations have also expressed concerns over visitors renting out accommodation without official authorisation. Since July 2024, passport holders from 93 countries have been allowed to stay in Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 60 days. By cutting the number of days to 30, the government says it hopes to curb misuse of the waiver period without damaging tourism. The Association of Thai Travel Agents has spoken out over concerns that an increasing number of foreigners are engaging in illicit jobs or business activities while claiming to be visiting for tourism purposes. The Thai Hotels Association raised another key issue that the 60-day stay was prompting a rise in the illegal letting of apartments to foreign visitors, the Bangkok Post reported. Thienthong said the measure has been agreed upon in principle by key ministries and an official date for the change will be announced soon. There will reportedly be possible exemptions or transitional measures for travellers who already have bookings in place. Thailand's 60-day stay has been a boon for many travellers wanting to undertake extended trips, including digital nomads and retirees. Around seven per cent of bookings to Thailand between January and February were for stays of over 22 nights, according to data from Forward Keys. Officials say the reduction in the number of visa-free days could see a small negative impact on inbound tourism demand. Tourism is a vital driver of Thailand's economy, and other challenges are also facing the industry. 'The potential policy move adds to a growing list of factors weighing on the sector [...], along with Chinese tourists' security concerns and tighter travel budgets among North American and European travellers,' Bloomberg Intelligence analysts wrote in a report this week. Thai authorities are aiming for foreign tourist arrivals to exceed 40 million in 2025, which would break the country's 2019 record. Between January and mid-March, Thailand's visitor numbers were already up 3.9 per cent from 2024. The EU's long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) is scheduled to finally come into force in 2025. Officials say Europe's new digital border system for non-EU nationals will be rolled out beginning in October this year. The exact date will be announced "several months prior to its launch", according to Foreign Office guidance. The system is being introduced to bolster border security and identify travellers who overstay their permitted time in the Schengen Area (90 days within a 180-day period). The new system requires Europe's border crossings to have dedicated infrastructure installed. The UK government has reportedly provided Eurostar, Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover with £3.5 million (€4.1 million) each to spend on registration kiosks. Eurostar will have 50 kiosks at three locations in stations while Eurotunnel will have over 100 kiosks and says EES checks will only add around five minutes to journey times. The Port of Dover will have 24 kiosks for coach passengers and will register car passengers using staff members and tablets. However, it's expected that as little as 10 per cent of Europe's border crossings will have this infrastructure installed when EES launches, so concerns are growing over how it will affect wait times at border crossings. The EES will be a registration system for UK, US and other non-EU travellers. It will only apply to those who don't require a visa to enter the EU. Travellers will need to scan their passports or other travel documents at a self-service kiosk each time they cross an EU external border. It will not apply to legal EU citizens or residents or those with long-stay visas. The system will register the traveller's name, biometric data, and the date and place of entry and exit. Facial scans and fingerprint data will be taken every three years and are valid for multiple trips within that period. The system means that new barriers have to be installed at all international land, maritime and air borders in the Schengen Area. These are said to be heavy, with some airports saying they have had to reinforce their floors to support them. This is just one of the myriad reasons for the system's nearly nine-year delay. The EES's scanning requirements have forced European train company Eurostar to change its check-in system at the UK border. The rail operator has scrapped a service that lets selected passengers skip the double passport control at London's St Pancras train station. From February, Eurostar stopped its SmartCheck option for Premium, Carte Blanche, and Etoile Club members. The service allowed passengers who register their details on the identification app to take advantage of facial recognition technology at St Pancras. This let them bypass the manual passport check by a UK immigration officer and go directly to French passport control. However, the system has been removed ahead of the introduction of the EES to prepare for the facial scanning and fingerprinting requirement for Brits upon entering the EU for the first time. There are concerns that the new system will lengthen passenger processing times at St Pancras, though Eurostar says they will increase control kiosks to minimise disruption. 'We're removing SmartCheck as we continue to make some changes at the station in preparation for the launch of the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES),' Eurostar said in a statement. 'As part of these preparations, we're improving our border control area with new ePassport gates and extra passport control booths. 'This will help us ensure the border control process is as smooth as possible for passengers travelling in the coming months and after EES has launched.' French authorities will also operate EES border checks at the UK's Port of Dover. They are currently working with the UK government to minimise the system's impact on border flows and traffic, but express concern about potential waiting times. Government agencies and representatives for the tourism industry have said that the EES will likely cause long queues for ferry traffic sailing from Dover to Calais. Guy Opperman, a minister in the UK's transport department, has since explained the scheme will have a 'six-month soft launch' to make the process more simple. 'If one got to a situation where there were a certain amount of queues or delays, then the provisions of the precautionary flexibility measures allow for much greater freedom of passage of vehicles, coaches, HGVs and cars,' he said. 'That takes care of so much of the queuing, so many of the complications.' Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover, has also now confirmed that the system will not be introduced until November 2025. Other countries are still working on EES implementation plans, too. The European Commission (EC) is allowing a six-month phased implementation of the system to reduce the likelihood of long waiting times at borders. This approach will give the participating nations more flexibility to fine-tune their technology and navigate unexpected issues. The goal, according to the EC, is to have the new system working at 10 per cent of border crossings in every member state on day one. During this soft launch period, travellers' passports will continue to be stamped, as well as electronically recorded.
