Thailand has abandoned its previous plan to charge international visitors arriving by air a 300 baht (US$8.20) tourism fee.
The decision to drop the controversial fee was announced by Thai
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during a recent visit to Chiang Mai.
According to the government, "The fee was abandoned with the rationale
that its elimination could encourage higher tourist spending in other
areas, thereby providing a more substantial boost to the economy."
The tourism fee had been approved by Thailand's former government in
February 2023, with collected fees intended to "manage and develop
tourism" according to a spokesperson at the time. However, the fee faced
opposition from the private sector.
Thailand has been taking several steps to boost tourism recently,
including approving longer visa stays for tourists and remote workers,
launching a new "Amazing Thailand" marketing campaign highlighting
luxury and wellness travel, and pushing for UNESCO World Heritage status
for Nan province.
The government has also approved tax measures to incentivise domestic
tourism during the low season from May to November, such as deductions
for companies holding conventions and allowing tax deductions for
non-hotel accommodation expenses.
Thailand recorded nearly 12 million international arrivals from
January 1 to April 28 this year, generating 575 billion baht (US$15.5
billion) in revenue. The country hopes to welcome around 40 million
foreign visitors total in 2024.