Thai industry bodies encouraged by tourism re-opening plan

The chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries has welcomed the plan to re-open Thailand to vaccinated tourists from low-risk countries. Supant Mongkolsuthree says the planned November 1 re-opening will accelerate economic growth and increase business confidence. According to a Bangkok Post report, Supant predicts the return of foreign tourism could see GDP growth achieve its target of 0% – 1% this year.

While a number of health experts have voiced concerns about the planned re-opening and the impact on Covid-19 infection rates, Supant urges them to view things differently. He points out that the pandemic may never end, adding that they should shift the focus from daily new cases to looking at the declining fatalities and improving vaccination rates.

Meanwhile, Sanan Angubolkul from the Thai Chamber of Commerce has also welcomed the re-opening plan, but has called for caution over the health risk. He says the government must prepare for the re-opening by providing more vaccines, including second doses and booster doses.

“It is important to build the confidence of potential tourists by communicating to various countries about the process of entering Thailand using international standards. Entrepreneurs and the public must be disciplined to reduce the risks of Covid transmission and keep the country open.”

The Bangkok Post reports that Dillip Rajakarier from hospitality group Minor International has described the November re-opening as a step in the right direction. However, he points out that the government needs to do more to improve Thailand’s safety reputation overseas.

“The government should communicate with and encourage international communities to set up exemption protocols for travellers returning from Thailand. While spending time in Thailand, these vaccinated travellers have undergone numerous safety protocols and should be able to return home with a minimum of inconvenience.”

For more information on how to get into Thailand during the pandemic, CLICK HERE.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post