Get Visa-free Access with China: What Investors Should Know

The visa-free arrangement between Thailand and China, effective from March 1, is predicted to cause a 57% surge in Chinese visitors this year, boosting the total foreign arrivals to 33 million. Analysts suggest this development offers an opportunity for investors to gradually accumulate travel stocks.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced the reciprocal visa-free scheme on Tuesday, January 2, following Thailand’s decision to waive visas for Chinese tourists until February.

In a research note, Daol Securities stated that tourism stocks, particularly hotels, are likely to be the most significant beneficiaries of this pact. Prominent suggestions include Erawan Group (ERW), Central Plaza Hotel (CENTEL), Minor International (MINT), and S Hotels and Resorts.

This is the first time China granted visa exemptions to Thai tourists, Daol noted. The firm also anticipates that…