Thailand will permanently eliminate visas for Chinese tourists from March 1, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced on Tuesday after a cabinet meeting in Bangkok.
In the past, Thailand had granted a transition visa waiver to visitors from China and Kazakhstan, which is set to expire on Feb. 29.
After negotiations with relevant Chinese authorities, the Thais have now chosen to adopt a permanent visa-free policy for Chinese tourists starting March 1, Srettha said at a press conference after the Cabinet meeting.
“This will not only stimulate Thailand’s tourism industry, but will also mean a further improvement in friendly relations between the two countries,” he added.
In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin confirmed that authorities on the two sides are in close communication regarding the matter and China looks forward to the arrangement’s early implementation.
“The strengthening of people-to-people exchanges and the mutual visa-free policy (once implemented) will be in line with the basic interests of the two peoples,” Wang said at a regular press briefing on Tuesday.
Tourism plays a role in Thailand’s economy: last year there were 28 million foreign tourist arrivals, plus around 4. 4 million visitors from Malaysia and 3. 4 million from China.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese nationals made up the largest organization of foreign tourists in Thailand, with 10 million visits per year.
Thailand now plans to boost its economy through 3. 5 trillion baht ($102 billion) in the tourism sector by 2024, aiming to make the country an all-season tourist destination.
In the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s recent promotional activity targeting the Chinese market, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, said China is a key source market for Thailand and has had a significant impact on the Thai economy.
“The Thai government is committed to providing high-quality tourism reports for Chinese tourists. Our methods consist of creating new attractions along with the sale of Thai comfortable powers and meaningful reporting,” he said.
“Safety measures are equally vital to ensure that Chinese tourists can have peace of mind during their holidays in Thailand,” he added.
Mo Jingxi in Beijing contributed to this story.