Thailand is set to implement a new tourism tax in 2025, aimed at enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure, providing visitor insurance, and improving the overall experience for international travelers. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to reinvest in Thailand’s tourism sector, which is recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The tax will be levied on foreign visitors entering the country, with the proceeds allocated to vital infrastructure projects and the establishment of a visitor insurance fund. These efforts are designed to ensure that tourists enjoy safer, more seamless experiences while contributing to the long-term growth and sustainability of Thailand’s tourism industry.
Thailand is preparing to introduce a 300-baht tourism tax on international visitors starting in 2025, a plan that has been discussed for years and is now set to be implemented after multiple delays. Originally proposed in 2020, this tax will apply to travelers entering the country, with the funds earmarked to improve tourism infrastructure and provide insurance for visitors. The announcement comes after the measure received Cabinet approval in February 2023, but previous ministers were unable to push it through until now.
Under the new scheme, travelers arriving by air will be charged 300 baht, while those entering by land or sea will pay a reduced fee of 150 baht. The tax proceeds are expected to be directed toward improving facilities for tourists, such as better transportation systems, upgraded airports, and enhanced safety measures. Additionally, the funds will help establish a visitor insurance fund, which will provide added protection for those traveling within the country. The aim is to use these funds to directly benefit tourists and improve their overall experience in Thailand.
The introduction of the tourism tax has faced delays in the past, and while the previous tourism minister had promised to launch the tax by the end of 2025, the plan was eventually withdrawn. However, the current minister has committed to finally rolling out the scheme and addressing concerns regarding its implementation. One of the biggest challenges the government faces is reassuring tourists about the potential extra costs. Social media discussions have raised concerns about the added expense, which could discourage some from visiting. To address this, the government has emphasized the importance of transparent communication, explaining how the funds will be used for infrastructure improvements and enhanced services, directly benefiting travelers.
In addition to the tourism tax, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is planning a series of promotional campaigns aimed at boosting both tourist arrivals and spending. These initiatives, set to launch in the fourth quarter, will highlight Thailand’s diverse range of attractions, including its beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cultural experiences. The campaigns will also focus on drawing in international visitors from key markets, ensuring that the country remains a top destination for tourists worldwide.
Meanwhile, the Ministry is finalizing a domestic tourism subsidy scheme, valued at 1.76 billion baht, which will be available by the end of October. This scheme is designed to encourage local tourism, offering financial incentives for Thai citizens traveling within the country. The goal is to support the tourism sector’s recovery from the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, while also promoting sustainable travel options for domestic tourists.
Although the government is hopeful that the tourism tax and the new promotional efforts will help stimulate the economy, Thailand’s tourism sector is expecting a slight decline in international arrivals. Projections for 2025 estimate 33.4 million foreign visitors, a decrease from the 35.5 million recorded in 2024. Despite this, the Thai government is optimistic that the introduction of the tourism tax, along with ongoing marketing campaigns, will gradually return visitor numbers to pre-pandemic levels.
Before the pandemic, Thailand saw nearly 40 million international visitors annually. The government’s target is to reach this figure again by 2026, but specific visitor goals for late 2025 and early 2026 have not been disclosed. The tax is part of a broader strategy to revitalize Thailand’s tourism sector, increase safety, and improve the quality of tourism services. With these plans in motion, the government hopes to see Thailand emerge as a more sustainable and attractive destination for travelers.
Thailand will introduce a new tourism tax in 2025 to enhance infrastructure, provide visitor insurance, and improve the overall tourist experience, supporting the sector’s post-pandemic recovery.
In conclusion, Thailand’s new 300-baht tourism tax is a bold move designed to improve the country’s tourism infrastructure, enhance visitor safety, and provide insurance for travelers. While the tax may raise concerns among some tourists about additional costs, the government is committed to showing how these funds will directly benefit the travel experience. With new promotional campaigns, a domestic tourism subsidy, and a clear vision for recovery, Thailand aims to regain its position as a leading global travel destination in the coming years.
