Thailand grants visa-free entry to Chinese tourists during peak season.

From September 25th to February 29th, 2024, the peak tourist season in Thailand, Chinese tourists can enter the country without a visa.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin after a cabinet meeting on September 13th. Accordingly, tourists from China and Kazakhstan can enter Thailand without a visa from September 25th to February 29th, 2024. Tourism Minister Sudawan Wangsupakijkosol stated that this temporary visa waiver is expected to attract an additional 5 million visitors from these two countries.

Chinese tourists pose on a beach in Thailand. Photo: Reuters — Chinese tourists pose on a beach in Thailand. Photo: *Reuters*

This move is part of a strategy to boost tourism revenue to pre-pandemic levels, aiming for $87 billion in 2024. Since the beginning of the year, Thailand has welcomed over 18.5 million international visitors. By the end of the year, the number of international visitors is expected to reach 28 million. According to the Ministry of Tourism, revenue from international visitors as of September 11th is estimated at 775 billion baht (nearly $22 billion).

China was Thailand's largest source market for tourists before the pandemic. In 2019, Chinese tourists accounted for nearly a third of the 39.8 million international visitors to Thailand. The government has also noticed an increasing number of visitors from Kazakhstan. According to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the number of Kazakhstani tourists seeking refuge from the cold is expected to "significantly increase" between now and the end of the year.

The head of government said that tourists from some countries face cumbersome and expensive visa application processes in Thailand. This is believed to be a drag on tourism revenue this year.

Before entering politics, Srettha was known as a "real estate tycoon" and the chairman of the US-based hotel operator Standard International. The new prime minister said he wants to expand the list of visa-free countries and increase the length of stay for most international visitors from 15 to 30 days.

In August, Mr. Srettha met with representatives from airlines to discuss initiatives to boost tourism. Government spokesperson Chai Watcharong said Thailand aims to attract 40 million international tourists next year, matching pre-pandemic levels.

( By Anh Minh , according to SCMP )

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