Thailand, April 28th, 2025 — Natreeya Taweewong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, expressed concern over the sharp decline in Chinese tourists visiting Thailand.
She warned that tourism remains Thailand’s last major economic driver and pointed out rising competition from Japan, Vietnam, and even China itself, which has been aggressively promoting domestic tourism and attracting foreign visitors.
China now offers a 13% VAT refund to international tourists, with a fast and convenient refund process similar to Japan’s tax-free shopping system.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), noted that while Thailand has been studying similar tax refund measures, delays could cost Thailand its competitive edge.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s “Half-Half Travel” subsidy program is under review, with the government expected to finalize budget details soon. TAT is pushing to maintain momentum in the Chinese market, highlighting the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese relations with events and campaigns such as “Sawasdee Ni Hao,” featuring Chinese celebrities like Luo Yunxi.
Adith Chairattananon, Honorary Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), warned that China’s new tax refund and visa-free transit policies could impact Thailand’s tourism sector. He urged faster action, noting that Japan’s duty-free spending surged 219% in March, driven mostly by Chinese tourists.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
