Thailand plans to introduce a tourist entry fee for air travellers
Thailand’s incoming government is set to introduce a 300-baht entry fee for foreign tourists arriving by air, with the proposal to be tabled at its first Cabinet meeting, according to a report by Nation Thailand. The fee aims to fast-track a long-pending plan to generate revenue from international tourism while addressing concerns around implementation.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn confirmed that the revised policy will apply only to air travellers. As per Nation Thailand report, earlier plans to charge a 150-baht fee for tourists entering via land and sea have been put on hold for now.
Also read: Thailand hotels slash room rates as global travel disruptions hit arrivals
Land entry fee put on hold
The government has decided to exclude land and sea arrivals at this stage, citing concerns over the impact on cross-border commuters and short-term visitors. Officials indicated that such a levy could place an added burden on frequent travellers who enter Thailand for brief visits.
The entry charge, earlier referred to in Thai as “ka-yiab-phaen-din” or “fee for stepping on the land”, may also be rebranded to present a more positive image to visitors.
Alongside the tourism fee, the government is also considering a structural overhaul of key ministries. A proposal has been put forward to merge the Ministry of Tourism and Sports with the Ministry of Culture to create a single Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
Also read: Thailand considers cutting visa-free stay to 30 days to address security risks
“Tourism in Thailand is inextricably linked to our traditions and culture,” Phiphat said, as quoted by Nation Thailand. “Integrating these departments will allow for a more cohesive strategy.”
Under the plan, sports administration would be separated into an independent ministry. The restructuring is expected to be completed within six months of the new government taking office.
The proposed changes reflect a broader effort to streamline tourism policy and align it more closely with cultural promotion, while also introducing new revenue measures targeting international arrivals.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn confirmed that the revised policy will apply only to air travellers. As per Nation Thailand report, earlier plans to charge a 150-baht fee for tourists entering via land and sea have been put on hold for now.
Also read: Thailand hotels slash room rates as global travel disruptions hit arrivals
The government has decided to exclude land and sea arrivals at this stage, citing concerns over the impact on cross-border commuters and short-term visitors. Officials indicated that such a levy could place an added burden on frequent travellers who enter Thailand for brief visits.
The entry charge, earlier referred to in Thai as “ka-yiab-phaen-din” or “fee for stepping on the land”, may also be rebranded to present a more positive image to visitors.
Alongside the tourism fee, the government is also considering a structural overhaul of key ministries. A proposal has been put forward to merge the Ministry of Tourism and Sports with the Ministry of Culture to create a single Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
Also read: Thailand considers cutting visa-free stay to 30 days to address security risks
“Tourism in Thailand is inextricably linked to our traditions and culture,” Phiphat said, as quoted by Nation Thailand. “Integrating these departments will allow for a more cohesive strategy.”
Under the plan, sports administration would be separated into an independent ministry. The restructuring is expected to be completed within six months of the new government taking office.
The proposed changes reflect a broader effort to streamline tourism policy and align it more closely with cultural promotion, while also introducing new revenue measures targeting international arrivals.
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