This change in Chinese tourist numbers is due to economic issues in China and the Chinese government’s focus on promoting domestic tourism, which has led to average air ticket prices in December falling by 19% to 590 yuan compared to November’s 728 yuan. However, the prices for international flights remained the same, averaging 1,980 yuan. Consequently, a significant number of Chinese travellers are exploring domestic destinations, especially in Yunnan Province, with an increase of up to 900 million trips, triple the number from 2019.
To boost the average spending of tourists and enhance it in 2024, the TAT plans to propose that the duration of stay of tourists from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), some of whom already enjoy visa exemptions in Thailand be extended. TAT would like to see this extended from 30 to 90 days, similar to the extension offered to Russian tourists.
Moreover, discussions will be held with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to issue multiple-entry visas, allowing tourists from certain countries to enter and exit Thailand multiple times. This is to accommodate tourists interested in using Thailand as a base for visiting neighbouring countries.
Additionally, extending the visa exemptions for Chinese tourists, set to expire on February 29, 2024, might be considered. This measure has been effective, as data from AliPay shows that the spending of Chinese tourists in Thailand, excluding accommodation and airfare, has increased by 100%, rising from 10,000 baht per trip to 20,000 baht per trip. Malaysia has already extended visa exemptions for Chinese citizens until the end of 2024.
Efforts are also being made to promote various festivals to attract tourists and stimulate spending.
