Thailand and China’s visa-free policy not boosting tourism yet

Despite the recent permanent visa-free policy between Thailand and China, airlines and hotels are not anticipating an immediate rise in demand. This is largely due to the gradual increase in demand and the seating capacity that is yet to fully recover.

The agreement was reached during China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s four-day official visit to Thailand, where he met with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Following the Thai government’s announcement of the permanent visa exemption on March 1, Wutthiphum Jurangkool, Nok Air Chief Executive, reported no significant increase in bookings.

The inbound Chinese market remains unpredictable with a 90% load factor during the Chinese New Year. However, post-holiday bookings are still relatively quiet. Before the pandemic, Nok Air operated in 10 Chinese cities and is currently operating flights to only three cities.

Nuntaporn…