Thailand’s new tourism minister, Sorawong Thienthong, plans to introduce a tourist fee of 300 baht (slightly over 800 rubles) starting in 2025. This fee was initially proposed by the previous government but has been delayed.
The minister believes that the tax will benefit the tourism industry, with the revenue generated being used to develop infrastructure, attractions, and enhance tourist safety. According to the Bangkok Post, the minister has pledged to increase tourism revenue this year to at least 3 trillion baht ($90.5 billion).
As per the government's 2022 plan, foreign tourists arriving in Thailand by land or sea are required to pay 150 baht, while those arriving by air must pay 300 baht. However, due to disagreements within the private sector, this scheme has not yet been implemented.
Exempted from the tourist fee are children under two years old, transit passengers, holders of diplomatic passports, and those with work permits in the kingdom.
Many countries worldwide have implemented tourist taxes, with rates varying depending on location and accommodation type.
Thailand expects to welcome around 2 million tourists from Russia in 2024. Phuket, the most popular Thai destination among Russians, has been recognized as the most crowded tourist destination in the world, with 118 tourists per local resident.