Thailand Announces Visa Waiver for Indian Travelers
In a significant move to bolster tourism, Thailand has decided to waive visa requirements for travelers coming from India and Taiwan, starting next month and continuing until May 2024. The announcement, made by a government official, is part of a broader strategy to attract more tourists, especially as the high season approaches.
Thailand had earlier removed visa requirements for Chinese tourists in September, as China has traditionally been the leading source of tourists for the country, contributing a substantial portion of the record 39 million arrivals in 2019.
As of October 29th this year, Thailand has already welcomed approximately 22 million visitors, which has translated into a substantial economic boost, generating 927.5 billion baht (equivalent to $25.67 billion), according to the most recent government data.
Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke explained, “Arrivals from India and Taiwan will now be able to enter Thailand for up to 30 days.”
India has emerged as the fourth-largest source market for Thai tourism this year, following Malaysia, China, and South Korea, with approximately 1.2 million arrivals. Notably, the influx of tourists from India has been steadily growing, thanks to the efforts of airlines and hospitality chains that have been targeting this market.
Thailand's aim is to attract around 28 million visitors this year, and the government is hopeful that the travel sector will help offset the impact of weak exports on the country's economic growth. This visa waiver for Indian and Taiwanese travelers is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving this target and promoting tourism in the region.
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