The Thai government plans to establish Thailand as a world-class hub in various sectors, including tourism, by hosting cultural events, improving travel facilitation, and promoting local products.
Thailand's Ambitious Goal: Making 2025 the Biggest Year for Tourism
( Credit to: Bangkokpost )
The Thai government has set an ambitious goal to make 2025 the biggest year for tourism in the country. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced this plan during the opening of a brainstorming session at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The government aims to host various cultural events, concerts, festivals, and even an international motor racing series throughout the year.
( Credit to: Bangkokpost )
Under the 'Ignite Thailand: Tourism' strategy, the government aims to establish Thailand as a world-class hub in several sectors, including tourism, medical and wellness tourism, food and agriculture, aviation, logistics, future mobility, digital economy, and finance. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin emphasized the importance of tourism as one of the flagship policies of the government.
Improving Travel Facilitation: Enhancing the Ease of Travel to Thailand
To attract more foreign tourists, the government is working on improving the ease of travel. Temporary visa exemptions have been granted to visitors from India, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Taiwan. Additionally, Thailand and China have signed a reciprocal visa exemption agreement. The government is also aiming to reach visa-free travel arrangements with European states in the Schengen area.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin highlighted the need to improve infrastructure and upgrade immigration control systems to ensure that international visitors have a positive experience in Thailand. He mentioned his recent meeting with Formula E executives during his trip to Germany and France. The executives expressed interest in Thailand as a potential site for hosting a Formula E electric-car racing championship series. This event would not only promote Thailand as a regional tourism hub but also align with the country's shift towards using electric vehicles.
Promoting Local Products: Showcasing Thailand's Cultural Heritage
The government plans to make the most of Thailand's cultural heritage or 'soft power.' Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin mentioned that the brainstorming session would serve as a platform to further push for tourism alongside infrastructure development. He stated that next year would be the biggest year for tourism, with various cultural and sports events, concerts, Formula E, and world food festivals planned.
In addition, the government is collaborating with retail business operators to promote products made by local communities under the initiative called 'Thainess Station: Thai Products Unify Thai Communities.' Thai handicrafts, including the pha khao ma or Thai loincloth, basketry from kra jood or bulrush, and indigo-dyed fabric, are now available at shopping malls and Thai international airports.
Positioning Thailand as a Global Hub: A Vision for 2025
The government's vision for 2025 aims to boost tourism in Thailand through a combination of engaging events, improved travel facilitation, infrastructure development, and the promotion of local products. With these efforts, Thailand is positioning itself to become a top tourist destination and a global hub in various sectors.