Tourists from China and Thailand are set to immerse themselves in each other’s rich cultures as new visa waiver agreements take effect. Earlier this week, Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced the implementation of a permanent visa-free policy for Chinese tourists visiting Thailand starting in March. This follows a temporary visa waiver that was initially set to expire on February 29.
The initiative is anticipated to significantly boost tourism between the two nations. In 2023, approximately 3.4 million tourists from China visited Thailand. Within just half an hour of the announcement, searches for Thailand on a Chinese travel website surged by around 158 percent compared to the same period the previous day.
Thailand, renowned for its stunning beaches, historic temples, and vibrant markets, is preparing to welcome an even greater number of visitors from China. The visa waiver is expected to strengthen cultural ties and promote mutual understanding between the Thai and Chinese people.
Local businesses in Thailand’s tourism sector are optimistic about the policy’s potential impact. The anticipated influx of Chinese tourists is likely to provide a substantial boost to the economy, supporting jobs and fostering growth in related industries such as hospitality, retail, and transportation.
Conversely, Thai tourists can look forward to more accessible travel opportunities to China, encouraging reciprocal tourism and cultural exchange. As both countries deepen their cooperation, travelers can expect new avenues to explore and appreciate each other’s traditions and attractions.
Reference(s):
Thailand to draw millions of Chinese tourists upon visa waiver
cgtn.com
