To boost tourism during the upcoming high season, Thailand is set to eliminate visa requirements for travelers from India and Taiwan from the upcoming month through May 2024. This decision is part of an effort to attract more tourists, following the country's earlier move to waive visa requirements for Chinese tourists in September. China was Thailand's primary source of visitors before the pandemic, accounting for 11 million of the 39 million arrivals in 2019.
From January through October 29, Thailand welcomed 22 million visitors, contributing 927.5 billion baht (equivalent to $25.67 billion) to the economy, according to the most recent government statistics. Under this new arrangement, travelers from India and Taiwan will be able to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days, as confirmed by spokesperson Chai Wacharonke.
In terms of tourist arrivals, India has emerged as Thailand's fourth-largest source market so far this year, with approximately 1.2 million visitors, following Malaysia, China, and South Korea. Inbound tourism from India is showing signs of growth, as more airlines and hospitality chains are targeting this market.
Thailand's goal is to achieve around 28 million arrivals this year. The government is pinning its hopes on the travel sector to help offset the persistent weaknesses in exports, which have been constraining economic growth.
