As Thailand looks to welcome 35 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, the Indian market is expected to play an important role in meeting the target. Last year, the number of Indian travellers visiting Thailand totalled 1.62 million, making it the fourth largest market.
“We are targeting over 2 million visitors from India in 2024. India is a high quality and high spending market for us and that’s the reason we introduced a visa exemption for Indian travellers last year. High value and sustainability are integral to our strategy for international markets. This encompasses ‘Partnership 360’ efforts, digital transformation, subculture movement, and sustainable practices,” said Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) while addressing a press conference in New Delhi last month.
TAT’s marketing activities will aim at current segments, including family, millennials, wedding and celebrations, golfers, luxury, and incentive groups. Specific initiatives will be introduced for new segments, such as, senior citizens, women travellers, rejuvenating tours, and adventure sports. The Gen Z and LGBTQIA+ are also earmarked as potential segments for the future.
“We also want to promote new products and destinations in the Indian market like three UNESCO sites in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thann Wellness in Ayutthaya, Mon Bridge and Pilok Village in Kanchanaburi and vineyard and winery, Khao Yai National Park in Khao Yai,” said Kiatphaibool.
For Health and Wellness enthusiasts, the choices are RVX Sampran in Nakhon Pathom, Thann Wellness in Ayutthaya, and La Vita Sana in Khao Lak, Phang-nga. Meanwhile, Cape Fahn in Samui, Four Seasons in Bangkok, Banyan Tree in Krabi, Anantara Koh Yao Yai present most-recent options for weddings and celebrations.
Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Minister of Tourism and Sports said “I am determined to elevate Thailand to be a quality and safe destination that delivers a valuable experience to our visitors from India. We want to promote Thailand as an all-year-round destination. We are also working towards further improving direct connectivity between the two countries.” Starting April 2, THAI Airways is launching a new route in India, Bangkok-Kochi operating three flights per week.
“Key strategies to realise our targets will be subsidy schemes for incentive, wedding, and celebration groups. Joint promotions with airlines and travel agents will be offered for repeat visitors and golfers. Just as importantly, we will continue to strengthen our presence through India’s leading shows including the OTM in Mumbai, and SATTE in New Delhi,” shared Kiatphaibool.
From 1 January – 15 February 2024, Thailand recorded 4.87 million foreign arrivals, generating over 215 billion Baht. The top five markets were China, Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India. For the entire year, TAT has set an overall revenue target of 3 trillion Baht, comprising 1.92 trillion Baht from international tourism and 1.08 trillion Baht from domestic tourism.