Asian tensions present chance
Thai tourism operators hope to get a windfall from a series of intense situations in Asia, including rampant protests in Hong Kong and Beijing’s ban on individual travellers to Taiwan.
“Thailand may receive a small benefit from tourists who change their plans at the last minute to escape tensions and visit us instead,” said Vichit Prakobgosol, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta).
He said the latest North Korean weapons test could add tension to the region, while a trade war between Japan and South Korea is still simmering.
Chinese tourists might shift their travel plans to Thailand after authorities stopped issuing individual travel permits to travellers visiting Taiwan from Aug 1.
To attract more travellers efficiently, Mr Vichit urged the government to work on weakening the baht to increase the competitiveness of the Thai tourism sector.
The baht has appreciated about 5% against the US dollar since the start of the year, making costs steeper for foreigners.
Despite the global slowdown, international arrivals to Thailand grew by 1.48% in the first half this year for 19.8 million visitors.
Atta suggested the Tourism and Sports Ministry launches stimulus packages as fast as possible to help revive the sluggish tourism business.
Mr Vichit also played down the impact of last week’s bombings in the capital, saying the incidents had little impact, with no serious injuries.
No tourists were hurt by the bombings.
Supawan Tanomkieatipume, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), suggests the new government implement measures such as a tax to control online travel agents (OTAs) and protect local hotels.
Apart from the competition from OTAs, she said the Thai hospitality service is dealing with higher planned levies under the new Land and Building Tax Act.
Effective Jan 1, 2020, hotel operators, especially those who operate five-star hotels in prime areas such as Ratchaprasong, will be subject to higher tax rates, she said.
A study by the THA found that following the new tax code, hotel operation costs will be 2-3 times higher than usual and would result in higher room rates.
‘‘Thailand may receive a small benefit from tourists who change their plans at the last minute to escape tensions and visit us instead.
VICHIT PRAKOBGOSOL
President, Atta