News
Thailand set to offer visa-free entry to Chinese tourists
AFP
Chinese tourists will enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand from the end of September under a temporary scheme announced by the kingdom’s newly formed cabinet Wednesday.
Thailand’s vital tourism sector accounts for almost 20 percent of its GDP but has struggled in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and changing traveler habits.
In particular, Chinese tourists — accounting for the largest percentage of Thailand’s visitors, with some 11 million touring the country in 2019 — have been slow to return.
Under the current rules, they can apply for a visa on arrival but must demonstrate travel insurance, hotel bookings, and proof of funds exceeding $280 at immigration for a maximum stay of 15 days.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the new scheme would run from September 25tj until February 29th next year and would “test if there is any impact (on the Thai economy)”.
There were no details about how long Chinese tourists might be able to stay under the arrangement.
“We have discussed with all relevant parties to make sure that we are fully ready,” Srettha told reporters after his first cabinet meeting.
Officials said they estimate the scheme, which also includes Kazakstan, could bring a total of 30 million visitors this year, up from 11 million in 2022.
“It’s a quick win for Thailand,” government spokesperson Chai Watcharong said.
“Tourism is the engine for Thailand and China has a huge potential,” he said, adding that security to protect tourists would be implemented.
China closed its border during the pandemic but has recently been encouraging tourism’s return, including by loosening restrictions on once-popular group tours to countries such as Thailand.
Srettha, who took power in August following months of political wrangling after a May election, has said boosting the tourism sector and stimulating the economy are among his top priorities.
-
News2 days ago
Lagos Women Run: International Road Racer, Mhlaba-Adebo, picks kits
-
AFRICA FOCUS19 hours ago
Organ Harvester Noah Kekere Not Medical Doctor, Says NMA
-
Sports19 hours ago
Lagos Women Run: Turnout excites organisers as more foreign runners arrive
-
AFRICA FOCUS1 day ago
Morocco 2025: Ekong, Lookman, Osimhen, Simon, 19 others gear up for Benin, Rwanda
-
Health2 days ago
Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, Is Dead
-
News2 days ago
Trump To Become America’s Next President
-
News14 hours ago
Lagos Seals Church, Others Over Noise Pollution
-
AFRICA FOCUS14 hours ago
N1.3trn Fraud: EFCC Grants Okowa Bail, Seizes Passport, Freezes Accounts