(AseanAll)  — On January 8, 2024, Thai Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan disclosed about the overview of Thai tourism for the year 2024 (January 1 – December 31, 2024), according to which Thailand attracted over 35.54 million foreign tourists, an increase of 26.27% compared to the previous year.  Tourism activities throughout 2024 generated 1.67 trillion Baht in revenue, an increase of 34%.

This data reflects recovery of Thai tourism and effectiveness of the Government’s related measures, i.e., visa exemption;  suspension of the TM6 immigration form requirement for land and sea arrivals;  and launching of new aviation routes and increase of flight frequencies.  Top 3 tourists visiting Thailand are from China, Malaysia, and India.  Domestic tourism also fared well in 2024, with a total of 198.69 million person-trips, an increase of 7.02%.  Domestic tourism generated the revenue of 950 billion Baht, an increase of 12.03%.  Bangkok, Chonburi, and Kanchanaburi remain the popular destinations.

These accomplishments are the result of an integrated effort between the Government, private sector, and localities, to continuously promote the country’s positive image through various activities and events in a bid to revive the economy and build confidence in the Thai tourism industry.  The grand year-end event, “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025” held at ICONSIAM, for instance, boasted a world-class phenomenon with the performance of “Lisa- Lalisa Manoban,” a world-renowned Thai artist.  The event attracted over 30 million viewers through live broadcasts on various channels, including such international media as CNN, BBC, and Reuters.  Ministry of Tourism and Sports expected that the event generated over 62 billion Baht in revenue, and would position Thailand among the world’s “Top 5 Countdown Destinations”.

As of January 6, 2025, a total of 505,411 foreign tourists are recorded during January 1-5, 2025, or an average of 100,000 people per day, generating the revenue of approximately 25,299 million Baht.  Top 5 countries with the highest number of tourists were China (69,548 tourists), Malaysia (57,127 tourists), Russia (46,752 tourists), South Korea (28,160 tourists), and India (26,635 tourists).

According to the Deputy Government Spokesperson, the Government continues to push for Thailand to become global tourism destination and hub and promote year-round tourism, while prioritizing tourist safety.  World-class events and activities, i.e., Thai festivals, concerts or sports competitions, will constantly be organized, and aviation routes to new cities will be established.