Thailand is a popular holiday destination for many Indians who visit to experience the country's vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. There is something for everyone, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the lush jungles of Chiang Mai and the pristine beaches of Phuket. If you're planning a vacation there, it's important to note that Thailand is considering reintroducing a 300-baht tourism tax, or INR 750, shelved during the previous administration. Here's what you should know.
Thailand's newly appointed Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, is exploring the possibility of reinstating the 300-baht tourism tax, a levy put on hold during the previous administration led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. According to reports, the minister has expressed a strong commitment to boosting tourism revenue to a minimum of 3 trillion baht within the current year. Despite being approved by the Thai cabinet in 2021, the tourism tax had been kept on hold by the previous administration due to opposition from the private sector.
Sorawong, who assumed office this week, emphasised the benefits of the tourism fee in local media reports. He pointed out that the funds collected from the fee could be allocated towards enhancing infrastructure, creating new tourist destinations, and bolstering safety measures for visitors.
“I believe the collection of the tourism fee benefits the tourism industry since the revenue can be used for the development of infrastructure and attractions, along with ensuring tourist safety,” he said. Sorawong has pledged to raise Thailand's tourism revenue to a minimum of 3 trillion baht this year. Nevertheless, he emphasised the need for additional time to evaluate this before taking further action.
Many popular destinations worldwide, such as Edinburgh, Barcelona, Paris, and Venice, have implemented additional tourist fees. Several destinations worldwide are implementing a tourism tax not only to generate revenue but also to address overtourism, which is a significant issue in Thailand. According to a 2023 study, the picturesque Thai island of Phuket has earned the somewhat dubious title of the world's most overcrowded tourist destination of 2023. Read more about it here.