Chinese tourists favour Vietnam over Thailand amid rising costs
Thailand has fallen behind Vietnam as the most-visited Southeast Asian destination for Chinese tourists in the first quarter. The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) subsequently urged the government to lower travel costs, which are currently 30% higher than Vietnam’s, and enhance Thailand’s appeal with new attractions.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry recorded 1.3 million Chinese visitors to Thailand during this period, while Vietnam saw an increase to 1.5 million, marking a 178% year-on-year growth, as reported by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.
Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of ATTA, highlighted Vietnam’s strategic market expansion, targeting China and other key markets like South Korea, Russia, India, and Taiwan.
Adith noted that Vietnam’s appeal stems from new attractions, efficient transport networks, especially international links in tourist cities, and more affordable tour packages, which are about 30% cheaper than those in Thailand. A critical factor in attracting Chinese tourists is Vietnam’s lack of safety concerns that are associated with Thailand.
During a meeting with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) yesterday, April 23, aimed at developing a Chinese market stimulus plan for the latter half of the year, Adith recommended collaboration with Chinese tour operators to offer special-priced packages via chartered flights from second-tier cities.
Concerns about the resurgence of zero-dollar tours were acknowledged, but Adith stressed the importance of maintaining visitor numbers to counter the current decline in Chinese tourism.
He emphasised that Thailand must offer competitive pricing to regain the Chinese market, adding that ensuring safety for tour groups could encourage further visits.
To curb the influence of grey businesses, the government should consider measures like reducing visa-free stays for Chinese travellers to 15-30 days, as visa exemptions and student visas have been misused for work purposes in Thailand.
The association proposed organising a roadshow for business trade in four cities: Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chongqing, and Changsha. Chongqing, with its economic growth of 5.6% in the first quarter, has attracted significant investment.
ATTA also suggested inviting state-backed media and national press to Thailand during a familiarisation trip scheduled for May 28-31, reported Bangkok Post.
Adith expressed that past efforts to boost confidence through key opinion leaders have been ineffective, as these figures are reluctant to counter negative public sentiment towards Thailand.
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