Vietnam surpasses Thailand in attracting Chinese, Russian tourists
Surge in Vietnam visits raises alarm for Thai travel industry
The decline in Chinese and Russian tourists visiting Thailand, in favour of Vietnam, is impacting the Thai tourism industry. With cheaper accommodation and 24-hour food service, alongside diverse attractions beyond natural sights, Vietnam is drawing twice as many tourists compared to Thailand.
Thanet Supornsahasrangsi, President of the Chon Buri Tourism Council, highlighted that Thailand’s tourism image has been suffering for some time. The reduction in Chinese tourists, who form a major customer base, has significantly affected areas like Pattaya in Chon Buri province. Tourists typically visit Bangkok before heading to Pattaya or nearby cities after arriving at Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi airports.
A nearly 50% drop in Chinese tourists has been noted, including independent travellers and those booking through online travel agents. This decline is exacerbated by the slow response of the government to address negative news reports, further impacting tourism.
While European tourist numbers appear to increase, this is primarily during the high season from November to March, when Europeans seek warmer weather. Once winter ends, the influx of European tourists diminishes.
Additionally, Russian tourists are increasingly visiting other countries, such as Vietnam and Egypt. The shift of flights to Vietnam signals a troubling trend for Thai tourism.
Thanet further explained that Thailand has faced challenges since incidents like the shooting involving Chinese tourists and a Chinese celebrity being kidnapped by a call centre gang at the Thai border. These events have raised safety concerns and led to criticism from Chinese influencers, compounded by an earthquake that further eroded Chinese tourists’ confidence in visiting Thailand.
Moreover, the Thai tourism industry struggles to compete with rivals due to higher costs. Countries like Vietnam offer lower wages and cheaper accommodation, with hotels providing 24-hour food services at lower rates than Thai hotels.
Attractions in Vietnam include not only natural sites but also well-developed man-made attractions like amusement parks, further attracting Chinese tourists, reported KhaoSod.
In March, nearly 700,000 Chinese tourists visited Vietnam, while Thailand saw only 300,000. Japan, facing economic challenges, is also focusing on attracting more Chinese tourists, partly due to the current weakening of the yen.
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