Thailand's new Prime Minister, Srettha ThavisinThe Prime Minister has pledged to boost tourism in Phuket by considering a visa extension to 90 days for nationals of certain countries. He also plans to increase capacity at Phuket airport in preparation for a possible surge in international arrivals during the peak season in November.
Mr. Thavisin and members of the Pheu Thai party's tourism policy committee, headed by Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, visited Phuket on Friday August 25 to talk to local residents and gather views from the private sector, with the aim of exploring ways of promoting tourism in this island province.
A measure to attract more foreign tourists to Thailand
By extending the duration of tourist visas to 90 days, the Thai government hopes to attract more foreign visitors, particularly from the countries targeted by this measure. This initiative comes at a time when tourism has been at half-mast since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.which has had a major impact on the Thai economy, which is highly dependent on this sector.
That's right, tourism accounts for around 20% of Thailand's GDP and generates vital revenue for the country. The health crisis has led to a drastic drop in the number of foreign tourists, from almost 40 million in 2019 to just a few hundred thousand in 2020 and 2021.
The economic benefits of a 90-day visa extension
Extending the duration of visas to 90 days would have several advantages for Thailand. Firstly, it would encourage visitors to stay longer in the country, boosting consumption and supporting the local economy. In addition, this measure could encourage tourists from the target countries to choose Thailand as their preferred vacation or business destinationThis will help strengthen the country's image on the international stage and improve relations with these partner nations.
Finally, extending the duration of visas would also benefit local businesses, particularly those in the tourism sector. It would offer them a wider and more diversified clientele, while simplifying administrative procedures for nationals of the countries concerned.
Countries targeted by the 90-day visa extension
For the moment, the Thai authorities have yet to reveal the full list of countries that will be affected by this measure. However, it is highly likely that neighbouring Asian nations, as well as Thailand's main trade and tourism partnerssuch as China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, the U.S. and European countries.
Decision expected soon
No specific date has been given for the implementation of this 90-day visa extension measure. However, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has assured us that he will study the proposal carefully and take a decision quickly, given the economic and tourism stakes for his country.
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