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and rich culture, is set to experience a tourism boomin 2024, with an anticipation of 35 million visitors . After years of stagnation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the country is showing signs of recovery and is firmly committed to initiatives aimed at reviving its tourism sector. With visitor numbers exceeding government forecasts, Thailand is once again positioning itself as a sought-after destination on the world stage. Thailand, often referred to as the “Land of Smiles,” is experiencing a tourism rebound with a forecast of 35 million visitors for 2024. This figure, which exceeds the government’s initial expectations, reflects the Kingdom’s increased determination to recover from years of restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This article explores the key factors contributing to this momentum as well as the initiatives being implemented to strengthen this trend.An impressive recovery from the pandemic After seeing drastic declines in visitor numbers in recent years, Thailand is starting to regain its former allure. In 2024, the country is expected to welcome35.54 million
tourists, a notable increase of 26% compared to the previous year, when only
28.15 million
visitors were recorded. This recovery is largely due to the lifting of travel restrictions and an increased promotional campaign by the government. Top countries of origin of tourists China is the top source country for visitors to Thailand, with 6.73 million tourists planning to visit in 2024, marking an impressive increase of 91%. Malaysia, India, South Korea and Russia also contributed to this significant increase. This return of Chinese tourists, long on hiatus due to the pandemic, is particularly encouraging for the sector. Government initiatives to boost tourism
The Thai government has launched several initiatives aimed at boosting the tourism sector, which is vital to its economy. The easing of
visa restrictions for Chinese and Indian tourists, as well as the organization of promotional events, are among the measures that have been implemented. These efforts underscore the authorities’ determination to encourage tourism as a driver of economic growth, especially after years of the sector being stymied. Economic Impact of Tourism on Thailand Tourism is a crucial sector for the Thai economy, generating significant revenue. In 2024, tourist spending is expected to bring in around1.6 trillion baht
, equivalent to nearly
€45 billion . While these figures are promising, the World Bank has reported that spending per tourist
is down by around
20% compared to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the need to continue supporting the sector’s economic expectations.Future Visions for Tourism in Thailand Thailand’s tourism future seems to be taking shape on solid foundations, with an ambitious government objective of39 million visitors for 2025. Although the gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for 2024 is 2.6% , this figure remains lower than other Asian countries such as Indonesia or Vietnam. However, the optimism surrounding the sector opens the way to future initiatives, particularly in terms of diversification of offers and sustainable development. For more information on this trend, you can check out this article on
the rebound of tourism in Thailand
. Key points on tourism growth in Thailand in 2024 35 million of expected visitors, exceeding forecasts.Increase in
26% compared to the previous year.China
: main country of origin of tourists with
- 6.73 million of visitors.
- Government measures to facilitate obtaining visas for the Chinese and Indians.
- Tourist spending estimated at 45 billion euros . Recovery forecasts with
- 39 million of visitors for 2025. Importance of the sector
- sightseeing for the national economy.Management of
- pandemic restrictions to attract travelers. FAQ on the new tourism boom in Thailand
- What is the forecast for visitors to Thailand for 2024? Thailand expects to welcome 35 million visitors in 2024, surpassing the initial target set by the government. How many visitors did Thailand welcome in 2023?
- In 2023, Thailand welcomed approximately 28.15 million tourists, marking a significant increase from previous years. Which country is the main source of tourists to Thailand? China once again became the top country of origin for tourists to Thailand, with 6.73 million visitors, representing an increase of 91% from the previous year.
What measures has the Thai government taken to support tourism?
The government has lifted visa restrictions for Chinese and Indian tourists and set up various promotional events to boost the sector. What tourism spending is planned for 2024?
Visitor spending brought in around 1.6 trillion baht in 2023, and authorities estimate this trend will continue as the number of tourists increases. What is the visitor target for 2025?
The Thai government plans to welcome 39 million tourists in 2025, continuing the sector’s growth trend. How has the Covid-19 pandemic impacted tourism in Thailand?
The pandemic caused a drastic drop in the number of visitors, with Thailand recording a peak of 39 million tourists in 2019 before seeing this dynamic halted by the health crisis. What is the economic impact of tourism in Thailand?
The tourism sector is crucial to the Thai economy, accounting for a significant share of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with growth forecast at 2.6% in 2024.