Thailand unveils travel subsidy to boost off‑season tourism
Thailand is planning to launch a programme to subsidise domestic tourism. According to announcements from Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, the new initiative could begin as early as May.
The Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, Sorawong Thienthong, stated that the new domestic tourism promotion programme could start in May, pending government approval. The programme stipulates that travellers will only need to cover half of their travel costs, with the remainder financed by the government. The new opportunities apply exclusively to domestic travel and come with certain conditions.
Approximately 1 million travellers will benefit from the programme
The ministry is seeking approval to use the central budget to finance this programme, initially estimated to cost 3.5 billion baht, approximately £80 million. Sorawong Thienthong anticipates that around a million potential travellers will take advantage of the offer, with the programme expected to sell out quickly.
A similar initiative, "Khon La Krueng," was introduced in 2020 during General Prayut Chan-o-cha's administration. It offered 50 percent subsidies on food, beverages, and general goods purchases. In the same year, Prayut's government also launched the "We Travel Together" programme, which supported local tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The programme is designed to support domestic tourism during the low season
Thailand's low tourism season lasts from May to September. The ministry hopes the new co-financing programme will encourage Thais to travel and increase spending during this period.
The programme also aims to stimulate the economy by boosting domestic consumer spending. Thailand hopes this programme will attract domestic tourists and invigorate the local tourism market.
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