Overview

• Thailand is waiving visas for tourists from India and Taiwan till May 10, 2024, as part of an attempt to revive its tourism industry which was impacted by the pandemic.
• Prior to this, Thailand already made a similar move for tourists from China and Kazakhstan, removing visa requirements for them until February 29, 2024.
• As a result of these changes, a 30% increase in hotel and flight bookings was noticed, according to Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Thai tourism Minister.
• Tourism, a significant contributor to Thailand's GDP and job market, saw 22 million international visitors from January to October 29, 2023, and generated revenue of 927.5 billion baht ($25.67 billion).
• India and Taiwan are the third and fourth nations respectively to be granted this Thai tourism visa exemption, as Thailand anticipates an increase in the number of tourists from these countries, considering the existing popularity of Thailand among these nationals.