The Thailand government's tourism-revival strategy is to target big spenders seeking privacy and social distancing in the Covid-19 era, rather than try to attract a large number of visitors, according to a report in Bloomberg News.
The Tourism Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is reportedly has said that the pandemic provides an opportunity to reset the sector, which had become reliant on Chinese groups and backpackers. Once the country’s borders are reopened and so-called travel bubbles are agreed upon, marketing efforts will be geared toward wealthier individuals who want holidays with minimal risks.
According to the report, the government will initially allow a small number of arrivals, such as some business executives and medical tourists. It is also working with the travel industry to identify and invite individuals in target demographics, which will probably include previous visitors to luxury resorts in the islands of Phuket, Samui, Phangan and Phi Phi.
The country plans to court such visitors during the winter months of November-February when European and American travelers seek out warmer climates. Thailand’s borders are currently locked to all but essential travel through June 30. Most restrictions on domestic travel were lifted this month.
The goal is for Thailand to have 10 million foreign arrivals this year, which is one-quarter of the 2019 tally. Total tourism revenue is predicted at US$39.6 billion this year, down 59% from last year.
The tourism sector will account for about 6% of gross domestic product in 2020, down from 18% last year. The dearth of travelers is one reason Thailand’s economy is forecast to contract as much as 6% this year. The government is rolling out stimulus worth 15% of GDP.
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