Thailand will charge foreign visitors a $9 entry fee beginning in April, according to officials, as the country tries to entice tourists back and mend its Covid-damaged tourism sector.
Last year, Thailand’s vital tourism industry was slammed by strict entrance requirements implemented to combat the virus, leading to the economy’s worst performance in more than 20 years.
The new 300 baht ($9) levy would be included in airfares, according to government spokeswoman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana.
Thailand used to attract around 40 million visitors each year before the pandemic, but the country is aiming to modify its tourism strategy to place a stronger emphasis on sustainability.
“Revenues will be utilized to cover the insurance of foreign tourists and build infrastructure for sustainable tourism,” Tourism Authority of Thailand governor Yuthasak Supasorn told AFP.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, tourism receipts will range from $39 billion to $54 billion this year, with foreign visitors accounting for roughly $24 billion.
