Tourism, the “tired jewel” of the Thai economy
Once a prime destination, Thailand appears to be losing ground in the tourism sector, as illustrated by the stagnation of figures since 2024. While the sector represents 12% of the kingdom's GDP, it must now compete with its Asian neighbors, which offer better value for money, among other advantages.
The Thai tourism industry, the "jewel in the kingdom's economic crown," is showing "severe signs of fatigue," the Bangkok Post newspaper noted in a worried editorial .
Between January and the end of April, 11,841,911 tourists entered Thailand, a minimal increase of 0.12% compared to the same period in 2024. They came mostly from China, Malaysia, Russia, India and South Korea.
Faced with this drop in attendance, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, has called a meeting with industry stakeholders, according to The Nation.
According to the minister, the market decline is partly explained by fears related to insecurity, particularly due to the lawless zones spreading in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos. The kidnapping of a Chinese actor earlier this year by mafia groups operating in "fraud centers" caused a stir in China and Thailand.
This stagnation should not be seen as a seasonal phenomenon, continues the Bangkok Post, but rather as a warning signal for politicians and tourism authorities in a country where tourism represents 12% of the country's revenue.
Courrier International
