Thailand gears up for Chinese tourist surge amid charter flight push
Thailand is ramping up efforts to boost Chinese tourist arrivals by increasing charter flights from secondary cities in China while launching a major domestic travel subsidy in June.
Chuwit Sirivejkul, regional marketing director for East Asia at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed that Thailand welcomed an average of 22,000 to 24,000 Chinese tourists daily in January. The numbers peaked at nearly 30,000 on January 28, marking a strong start to the Chinese New Year period.
However, concerns over human trafficking have led to more than 10,000 cancellations, mainly from Chinese tour groups from second-tier cities. Independent travellers, however, have continued to arrive at regular levels.
To address the sluggish tour group market, the TAT is collaborating with tour operators to boost arrivals, particularly through charter flights.
“We’re targeting meetings and incentive groups, as Chinese businesses prefer to save their budgets for travel outside the peak holiday season.”
Despite the setback, the TAT estimates that Chinese tourist arrivals during the Chinese New Year period (January 24 to February 2) will reach 287,000, generating 8.8 billion baht in revenue—a 7% and 9% increase year-on-year, respectively.
The festivities have also drawn visitors from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, further boosting Thailand’s tourism economy.
TAT chief Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong personally welcomed Chinese tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Wednesday. The flight from Shanghai, TG663, carried 298 passengers, boasting a 94% load factor.
Looking ahead, the TAT is targeting 7.2 to 7.5 million Chinese arrivals this year, while the Tourism and Sports Ministry is aiming for 8 million. To maintain momentum, Chinese influencers will be enlisted to promote Thailand throughout the year.
Meanwhile, the government is set to launch the first phase of its domestic We Travel Together subsidy in June, offering one million privileges with enhanced benefits to stimulate local tourism during the low season, reported Bangkok Post.
The government expects 770,000 Chinese nationals to visit Thailand during Chinese New Year, marking a 22.6% increase compared to the same period last year.
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