Thailand officially exempts visas for Chinese visitors

Tourism plays an important role in Thailand's economy, accounting for nearly 20% of GDP, but is struggling due to the Covid-19 pandemic and changing tourist habits.

In particular, Chinese tourists — who make up the largest proportion of Thailand's total foreign visitors, with about 11 million arriving in the country in 2019 — have been slow to return, according to CNA .

Chinese tourists visit Pung Tao Gong Temple in Chiang Mai in January 2023

Under current regulations, Chinese visitors must apply for a visa at the border gate and must prove travel insurance, hotel reservations, and proof of funds of more than $280 upon entry for a maximum stay of 15 days.

However, this policy will change in the near future. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said that the new visa program will be implemented from September 25 to February 29 next year and will "check whether there is any impact on the Thai economy".

There are no details on how long Chinese tourists can stay under this new visa policy.

"We have been in discussions with all stakeholders to ensure that we are fully prepared," Srettha told reporters after the first cabinet meeting.

Officials estimate that the plan, which includes Kazakhstan, could attract a total of 30 million international visitors this year, up from 11 million in 2022.

"Tourism is a driving force for Thailand and China and has huge potential," government spokesman Chai Watcharong said, adding that security to protect tourists would be ensured.

Srettha, Thailand's new Prime Minister, has said boosting tourism and stimulating the economy are among his top priorities.

Source link: https://thanhnien.vn/thai-lan-chinh-thuc-mien-thi-thuc-cho-khach-trung-quoc-185230913202223518.htm