Thailand recorded a 7.1% drop in foreign tourist arrivals between January 1 and September 14 compared to the same period last year, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry. During this time, the country welcomed approximately 23 million international visitors.
Malaysia remained the top source of tourists with 3.28 million arrivals, closely followed by China with 3.23 million. However, the ministry recently revised its full-year forecast for foreign arrivals to 33 million, down from the earlier estimate of 37 million.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand saw a record high of nearly 40 million visitors in 2019. Post-pandemic, the country has faced challenges in regaining its position as a top travel destination. Rising prices for accommodation, food, and transportation have drawn criticism from travelers, particularly from mainland China.
Adding to the competition, Vietnam has now overtaken Thailand as the leading regional destination for Chinese adventurers, signaling a shift in travel trends across Southeast Asia.
Thailand Reports 7% Decline in Foreign Tourist Arrivals
