Thai official raises concern over Chinese film’s impact on tourism (video)

Puangpet Chunlaiad, Office Minister of the Prime Minister, raised concerns with Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang about the potential impact of the Chinese film No More Bets on tourism in Thailand.

The meeting took place at the Government House yesterday, November 27.

Puangpet expressed her concerns about the movie’s portrayal of fraudulent activities, human trafficking, organ trading, call scams, and high-profile abductions. She noted that elements of the film were written in Thai and sparked criticisms on China’s social media site, Weibo.

Puangpet noted that such consequences could deter Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand, as per a statement from the prime minister’s Pheu Thai Party.

She refuted the film’s depiction of Thailand, stating that such crimes do not occur in the country and that the government has effective safety measures in place for tourists. She requested the Chinese ambassador to disseminate her message.

Han Zhiqiang, however, did not anticipate the film having a negative influence on Chinese tourism in Thailand, particularly during the upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations. As stated in the government’s announcement, he recalled that prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand was a popular destination for Chinese tourists, with over 10 million visitors in 2019, reported Bangkok Post.

Despite the pandemic, the ambassador noted a growth in the number of Chinese tourists and expressed confidence in their continued interest in Thailand. Additionally, he anticipated an increase in Thai visitors to China, as per the government’s statement.

In related news, despite increasing competition from countries offering visa exemptions to Chinese tourists, Thailand’s tourism industry remains secure due to its dominant market share and increased expenditure per trip, according to the country’s Tourism and Sports Ministry.

Countries such as Kazakhstan, Maldives, and Sri Lanka have started offering visa exemptions for Chinese tourists, yet Thailand continues to be the preferred destination, said Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Tourism and Sports Minister. Read more about this story HERE.