Haris & Associates Phuket Thailand Legal Blog

8.81 million international tourists were expected in the first quarter this year, a rise of 12.23 percent year on year, and 7.82 million in Q2, or around 11.56 percent growth, assuming that there were no “unusual events”.

Mr Ittirit also said the confidence tourism sector in the first quarter was 95 points, slightly lower than normal.

Tourism operators counting on Thai customers were still assessing their business prospects, wary of domestic circumstances, but those who courted mainly foreign tourists apparently have a positive outlook, he said. Foreign arrivals have been on an upward trend since the start of 2016.

Mr Ittirit said tourism and government spending had been the main economic drivers in 2016 so far, and that the tourism industry wanted the government to help stimulate domestic and international markets.

The tourism council suggested the government increase publicity to tax incentives for domestic tourists, however recommended caution in announcing extra public holidays.

The government also could monitor the huge rise of tourist arrivals at some destinations and the entry of foreign companies into the sector in Thailand. Tourist facilities at some ports also need improvement, and assistance given to help operators developing safe attractions.

Pratheep Jongthong, president of the Trang Tourism Association, said the government’s allowance of 15,000 baht in tax deductions for travel and dining expenses during next month’s Songkran festival would likely not stimulate the tourism market. Those people with purchasing power had probably already planned their trips and the less well of are keeping their money back for necessities.

He said the government should invest in long term improvements that would ensure safety and convenience for visitors, such as new toilet facilities. Without those basics in place, tourists may start to avoid such places.

Mr Pratheep said there were more visitors to Andaman Sea beaches but many people didn’t travel to the islands due to the high entrance fees, adding that the government should lower the cost. It should also spend more on personnel development and efficiency improvements at tourist hotspots to attract more Thai tourists.

SOURCE:The Bangkok Post.