Thailand is setting an ambitious goal to attract 8 million European tourists in 2025, aiming to reach 11 million total long-haul visitors. The Tourism and Sports Ministry is committed to accelerating partnerships with airlines and foreign embassies to resume full international flight operations.

 

“Thailand’s tourism sector is poised for a vibrant future. We’re enhancing infrastructure, simplifying visa procedures, and developing new offerings to ensure Thailand remains a global leader in tourism,” said Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong at the 2024 World Travel Market in London, held from Nov 5-7.

 

Following the event, Minister Sorawong plans to engage with ambassadors from key markets, including the UK, Germany, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, along with airline executives, to align on flight schedules and preparations for peak travel seasons in 2025.

 

The ministry also intends to collaborate with the Transport and Finance Ministries on airline support initiatives, such as fuel and tax subsidies, to boost tourism accessibility.

 

For 2024, Thailand anticipates 9.6 million long-haul arrivals, including 7.3 million from Europe, as per the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Next year’s expected 11 million long-haul visitors are projected to generate over 896 billion baht, contributing 40% of Thailand’s 2.2 trillion baht in foreign tourism revenue.

 

At the WTM, 42 Thai tourism operators joined the TAT pavilion to engage with long-haul markets, especially the UK and Europe, with TAT projecting at least 950 business meetings and an estimated economic impact of over 898 million baht.

 

Princess Ubolratana was also present to advocate for Thailand’s focus on sustainable tourism and cultural appeal.

 

Nithi Subhongsang, managing director of Nutty’s Adventures, a Thai destination management firm, noted that European travelers, especially small groups, remain core customers interested in local and sustainable travel experiences. He emphasized the importance of consistent policies supporting sustainable tourism and diversifying tourist destinations to manage crowding and boost local economies.

 

Sam Collins, UK product manager at Best at Travel, highlighted Thailand’s reputation for warm hospitality and value. In 2023, Best at Travel saw over 4,000 UK tourists visit Thailand, generating £8 million (351.8 million baht). He observed a shift in demand toward less-crowded locations such as Koh Lipe, Koh Samet, Koh Tao, and Khao Lak, rather than major hubs like Phuket and Samui. Collins urged the Thai government to invest in inter-city transportation, particularly rail, and increase direct international flights.

 

Korakot Chatasingha, THAI’s chief commercial officer, shared that the national airline is positioning Bangkok as a hub for European tourists visiting Asia. European routes are expected to contribute around 30% of the airline’s revenue this year, with flight frequencies rising to 91 per week by December, including a new route to Belgium. THAI’s load factor for European flights remains above 80%, and the airline, with 88 aircraft by 2025, aims to sustain its European routes with strong frequency, with London as the only destination offering first-class service.

 

Source: Bangkok Post

 

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The editorial team at Invest Bangkok Property