In a major move to revitalize its tourism industry, the Thai government has announced a permanent visa-free travel agreement with China, allowing Chinese tourists to enter Thailand without the need for a visa. This new development strengthens the tourism ties between the two countries and is expected to bring both economic and cultural benefits.
The agreement builds on the Pheu Thai Party’s strategy to increase visa-free travel for Thai citizens, which was a key focus during the leadership of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In response, China waived visa requirements for Thai nationals starting March 1, 2024, making travel between the two countries even more accessible.
Thailand initially introduced a trial visa exemption for Chinese tourists from September 2023 to February 2024. The initiative aimed to revive the influx of Chinese visitors to Thailand, who had numbered around 10 million in 2019 before the pandemic. With China being Thailand’s largest source of tourists, this policy is designed to restore and even exceed those numbers.
Tourism organizations and airlines expect the visa-free arrangement to balance the flow of travelers between the two countries. Airlines are likely to expand flight offerings as more people travel in both directions. Previously, flights to China were dominated by Chinese tourists returning from Thailand. Now, the trend is shifting, with increasing numbers of Thais looking to visit China.
The change is already being felt. Thai AirAsia reported a threefold increase in Thai passengers to China in March 2024 compared to January, when visas were still required for Thai tourists. Interest in China as a travel destination is rising, becoming almost as popular as Japan for Thai travelers.
The Thai Travel Agents Association has highlighted China as an emerging favorite for Thai tourists, with many attracted to the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions. Online platforms like Klook have also noted a surge in interest for Chinese destinations, such as Shanghai Disneyland.
Beyond China, Thailand is also expanding its visa-free program with other nations, including Kazakhstan, as part of its broader efforts to boost international tourism. Additionally, the Thai government has announced plans for a “Six Countries, One Destination” policy, which will allow travelers to visit multiple Southeast Asian nations on a single visa, similar to Europe’s Schengen visa system.
By strengthening travel ties with China and other nations, Thailand is positioning itself as a key tourism hub in Southeast Asia. The country’s commitment to warm hospitality and rich cultural experiences, combined with new visa policies, is expected to attract a growing number of international visitors. The ongoing partnership with China is not only a diplomatic success but also a significant economic opportunity for both nations, reported the Bangkok Post.
