Post by : Badri Ariffin

Thailand is preparing a 2.45-billion-baht tourism stimulus package designed to reduce travel costs and encourage more people to visit the country. According to the Bangkok Post, the initiative comes as Thailand faces growing competition from other tourist destinations across the region.

The proposed package includes hotel subsidies, discounted domestic flights, and support for international air travel. Combined, these measures are expected to generate around 56 billion baht in economic value.

Hotel Subsidies to Encourage Domestic Tourism

A major part of the plan focuses on boosting domestic travel through the "Thai Teaw Thai Plus" programme.

Under the scheme, eligible travellers will receive a 50% government subsidy on accommodation costs. Initially, the government plans to provide 500,000 travel benefits under the programme.

Each traveller will be able to claim up to five accommodation subsidies, with a maximum value of 3,000 baht per booking. In addition, travellers will receive 500-baht coupons that can be used at restaurants, tourist attractions and local businesses.

The government estimates that this domestic tourism programme alone could generate approximately 32 billion baht for the country's economy.

Domestic Flight Discounts Included in the Package

The proposal also aims to lower travel expenses by offering discounts on domestic flights.

Around 400,000 airline seats will be eligible for discounts of either 400 baht or 600 baht, depending on the destination. The measure is intended to make travel within Thailand more affordable and encourage greater domestic tourism.

International Tourism Support Through Airline Partnerships

To attract more overseas visitors, the government also plans to support charter flights and work with airlines on joint marketing campaigns.

Officials expect this part of the programme to bring hundreds of thousands of international tourists to Thailand and generate more than 23 billion baht in tourism revenue.

Government Says Plan Will Strengthen Tourism Competitiveness

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the measures are necessary to strengthen Thailand's position in an increasingly competitive global tourism market.

The proposal has not yet received final approval. The government is also still considering whether the funding will be allocated from the 2026 or 2027 national budget.

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