Latest news with #ThapaneeKiatphaibool
Skift
4 days ago
- Business
- Skift
Thailand Eyes High-Spending Markets Amid China Tourism Slump
Thailand built its tourism engine on volume, and no market delivered like China. But with Chinese arrivals nowhere near pre-pandemic numbers, Thai tourism officials are making a hard pivot: fewer tourists, but higher spenders. From January 1 to June 8, Thailand recorded more than 15 million international arrivals, according to government data. Yet that total is nearly 3% below the same period last year. Tourism revenue reached THB 699 billion ($21.5 billion), but the momentum isn't quite where the country hoped it would be by midyear. The main reason for this has been a sharp slowdown in Chinese arrivals. China, once the dominant feeder market for Thai tourism, has now slipped behind Malaysia as the top source of inbound travelers. In response, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is placing its bets on markets showing stronger returns, particularly Europe and the Middle East. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool on Tuesday said the country has been seeing real movement from European markets. Presenting the latest data, Kiatphaibool said between June 1 and 9, arrivals from Germany jumped 71% year over year. Visitors from Italy rose 28%, and Switzerland 24%. While the absolute numbers remain modest, TAT officials emphasized the significance of their spending power. 'These are high-purchasing-power travelers,' Kiatphaibool said — exactly the type of tourists Thailand's revised strategy is now prioritizing. Forward airline bookings for the third and fourth quarter look 'strong' from Europe, she added, especially heading into the winter high season. That's welcome news in a year when Thailand has already lowered its annual international tourism revenue target from THB 2.3 trillion ($69 billion) to THB 2 trillion ($60 billion). Middle East on the Rise The Middle East too has entered its own seasonal travel peak and Thailand is reaping the benefits. Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE all posted year-on-year growth of more than 50% in early June, according to TAT data. Kiatphaibool said these markets are 'performing very well.' Like their European counterparts, Middle Eastern travelers fit TAT's focus on 'quality tourism' — meaning longer stays, higher daily spending, and interest in bespoke experiences. According to Kiatphaibool, Thailand is projecting summer-period growth of 21% from Europe, 25% from the Middle East, and 7% from other Asian markets. For the winter season (October through December), bookings remain strong: up 17% from Europe, 12% from the U.S., and 22% from Asia. Malaysia and India Quietly Surge Meanwhile, Malaysia has quietly taken the lead as Thailand's top source market, with just over 2 million arrivals so far this year. Between June 1 and 9, Malaysian visits increased by more than 13% year over year. India has also crossed the one million mark. According to TAT, demand is coming not only from major metros but increasingly from smaller cities like Surat and Rajkot particularly among premium travelers. Safety concerns have dented Chinese traveler confidence. A string of events, including incidents near the Myanmar border, a fatal construction collapse in Bangkok following the March 28 earthquake, and reports of local scams targeting Chinese nationals, have all fed perceptions of insecurity. Chinese tourist arrivals crossed 2 million during the first half, but that figure pales in comparison to the yearly arrival of 11 million Chinese visitors to Thailand in 2019. Thai officials have also revised down their target for Chinese arrivals in 2025 from 8 million to 6.7 million — the same number as last year. Thailand has also seen softening from other East Asian markets, including Japan and South Korea. Refined Strategy, Trimmed Budgets TAT has also adjusted its marketing approach to match the shifting global landscape. The agency is doubling down on long-haul and mid-sized markets with stronger per-trip spending, these include the U.K., Germany, France, Russia, and the U.S. That shift comes as TAT proposed to trim its domestic subsidies and reallocate funds to attract international visitors. Budget previously earmarked for Thai travel stimulus would be redirected toward inbound charter flight subsidies and partnerships with global online travel agencies to promote tourism during off season. Thailand began the year with ambitious targets: 39 million foreign arrivals and 2.23 trillion baht in international revenue. Those figures have now been adjusted downward to 35.5 million visitors and 2 trillion baht in receipts. Even those revised numbers assume continued strength from higher-spending, long-haul markets. Nithee Seeprae, Deputy Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, at the Skift Asia Forum last month in Bangkok.
Trade Arabia
30-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Etihad signs MoC with Tourism Authority of Thailand
Etihad Airways signs a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between Thailand and the national airline of the UAE, at Arabian Travel Market 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: "Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences." Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.'
Mid East Info
29-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
TAT promotes Thailand as a Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Strategic partnerships with GCC airlines and tailored offerings aim to attract 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 2025 : The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting Thailand's position as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, aligning with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative. At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with key GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to enhance connectivity and offer co-branded campaigns that showcase Thailand's wellness and luxury experiences. These initiatives aim to help TAT reach its 2025 target of over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: 'Thailand is proud to offer an inclusive, seamless travel experience for Muslim travellers. We now have an extensive network of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities at major airports and shopping centres, and luxury accommodations with private and gender-segregated amenities. We believe these features make Thailand a compelling choice for the Muslim travel market.' Tailored travel packages have been developed for families, honeymooners, and wellness seekers from the GCC region. These curated experiences focus on privacy, cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation – designed in line with the values and expectations of Muslim travellers. Thailand welcomed over 956,000 visitors from the MEA region in 2024, a 25.6% increase from the previous year. The country remains a top destination among high-spending travellers from the Middle East who seek longer stays and personalised itineraries. As part of its broader campaign, TAT is showcasing the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 at ATM. The nationwide celebration features year-round festivals, global sporting events, and exclusive travel privileges. Key focus areas include sports tourism, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and luxury—each offering immersive and personalised experiences that reflect Thailand's commitment to sustainable, creative, and innovative tourism. The campaign also highlights Thailand's '5 Must-Do Experiences': Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See—inviting travellers to delve deeper into the country's cultural richness beyond the typical tourist routes. Ms Kiatphaibool added: 'The Middle East is familiar with our iconic offerings, but we're excited to present new perspectives, including our Thai Craft Destinations concept and Hidden Gem Cities. These showcase authentic local craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine – helping travellers discover the true essence of Thailand.' TAT's efforts are underpinned by Thailand's sustainable tourism strategy, which follows the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. This approach supports low-impact travel, community engagement, and cultural preservation, reinforcing Thailand's role as a leader in responsible tourism. Following ATM, a delegation of Thai representatives will conduct roadshows in Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha from 4–7 May, followed by visits to Casablanca and Amman. These initiatives aim to strengthen B2B engagement and solidify Thailand's presence in the GCC market.
Khaleej Times
29-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Etihad Airways signs memorandum of cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand
Etihad Airways on Tuesday signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between the Southeast Asian nation and the national airline of the UAE at Arabian Travel Market 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer of Etihad Airways, said: 'Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences.' Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.' Etihad announced last year the addition of two new destinations in Thailand, among the 16 new routes the airline will be launching this year. Operations to Krabi and Chiang Mai will begin in October and November respectively, and will strengthen the airline's presence in the market, alongside existing routes to Bangkok and Phuket. Etihad's extensive global network and four gateways in Thailand make it easy for leisure travellers to fly directly into their favourite holiday destinations in Thailand, supporting tourism in the market on a global scale. Image 1: From left to right: Image 2: From left to right: Etihad Airways cabin crew, Dr Nadia Bastaki Chief People & Corporate Affairs Officer Etihad Airways, Thapanee Kiatphaibool Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Antonoaldo Neves Chief Executive Officer Etihad Airways, H.E. Mr. SorayutChasombat Ambassador of Thailand to the UAE, and Etihad Airways cabin crew.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Etihad Airways signs cooperation agreement with Tourism Authority of Thailand
Etihad Airways signs a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, "Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences." Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said, 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.' Etihad announced last year the addition of two new destinations in Thailand, among the 16 new routes the airline will be launching this year. Operations to Krabi and Chiang Mai will begin in October and November respectively, and will strengthen the airline's presence in the market, alongside existing routes to Bangkok and Phuket.
