Election uncertainty affects Thai tourism, domestic spending slows down

As the Election Commission validates candidates for MP-elect roles this week, tourism operators express concern about a slowdown in domestic spending. Travellers appear to be delaying their plans, whilst local businesses hesitate to reinvest until a government is established.

“There will still be a vacuum period until the government is formed,” said Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association.

Sanga highlighted that domestic tourists seem reluctant to spend on travel due to the ongoing political uncertainty, particularly if protests arise.

Khao San Road businesses rely heavily on domestic tourists, especially during weekends and the low season for European market visitors, while the short-haul market has yet to return to its 2019 levels, Bangkok Post reported.

…