The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has committed to registering unlicensed hotels within one year through a new regulatory draft, aiming to safeguard Thailand’s long-haul tourism market as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) comes into effect in two years, enforcing strict environmental standards.
The ministry also seeks to bring a prominent global trade show, like the World Travel Market (WTM) Asia, to Thailand.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong noted that many small operators, especially unlicensed accommodations in smaller towns, lack awareness of sustainable practices.
Expected to curb emissions, the EU’s CBAM regulation—phasing in fully by 2026—places a carbon price on imported goods based on their production emissions. For Thailand, this regulation will impact EU tourists visiting the country, as service providers who don’t meet CBAM standards may incur higher tariffs, reducing Thailand’s competitive edge in tourism.
Minister Sorawong aims to expedite new regulations that can formalize unregistered operators, establishing a committee comprising MPs and private-sector representatives to discuss the draft before presenting it to parliament. The process is expected to conclude within a year.
“I am confident that all operators will want to register, as this will qualify them for government support in case of unforeseen events,” he said, adding that many tourists prefer registered accommodations.
Mr. Sorawong, alongside Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) executives and 42 Thai tourism businesses, attended WTM London 2024 from Nov 5-7, where they explored negotiations to host WTM Asia in Thailand in the future.
“Thailand is a leading global tourism destination but has yet to host a tourism trade fair of this scale,” Mr. Sorawong added.
According to Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, the process could take two years to bring the event to Thailand. With the TAT’s pavilion at WTM London receiving an award for Best Stand Feature, showcasing local products and soft power, Thailand has a strong foundation for further discussions.
The TAT also plans to participate in ITB Berlin 2025, focusing on promoting Thailand’s secondary provinces. Local government officials will be invited to contribute content for this international stage.
The ministry’s 2025 tourism target is 40 million international arrivals, generating 2.4 trillion baht.
Source: Bangkok Post
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