Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced on Tuesday that starting March 1, Thailand will permanently waive visa requirements for Chinese tourists. This decision follows the expiration of the temporary visa waiver, previously granted to visitors from China and Kazakhstan, set to end on February 29.
After negotiations with Chinese authorities, the Thai government has opted for a permanent visa-free policy for Chinese tourists, aiming to not only boost Thailand’s tourism industry but also signify an improvement in the friendly relations between the two countries, according to Srettha.
The move was confirmed by Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin in Beijing, who stated that both sides are in close communication, and China looks forward to the early implementation of this arrangement. Wang emphasized that the mutual visa exemption policy aligns with the fundamental interests of both peoples, fostering people-to-people exchanges.
Thailand’s economy heavily relies on tourism, with 28 million foreign tourist arrivals recorded last year. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese nationals constituted the largest group of foreign tourists, with 10 million visits annually. As part of its economic recovery plan, Thailand aims for a 3.5-trillion-baht ($102 billion) boost through the tourism sector in 2024, intending to position the nation as an all-season tourist destination.
Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports, highlighted the significance of the Chinese market for Thailand and its impact on the economy. She emphasized the government’s commitment to providing high-quality tourism experiences for Chinese tourists, focusing on developing new attractions, promoting Thai soft powers, and ensuring safety measures for a positive travel experience.
