Southeast Asia's second largest economy fears decline in foreign arrivals after deadly earthquake

By Hoang Phong March 31, 2025 | 04:55 pm PT

People gather outside a building in Bangkok, Thailand after a strong earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025. Photo by Reuters

Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, could see a 10% to 15% drop in foreign arrivals over the next two weeks following a massive earthquake in Myanmar that sent tremors through Bangkok.

About 10% of foreign tourists checked out early after the quake on Friday, which shook many parts of Southeast Asia and China, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association, said as quoted by Bloomberg.

In Bangkok, many foreign tourists were left shaken as tremors rattled the city, swaying high-rise buildings, cracking walls, and causing water to spill from rooftop swimming pools.

The timing of the disaster threatens to disrupt Thailand’s busiest tourism season. The country is preparing for the Songkran festival, a week-long water-splashing celebration starting in mid-April, which typically draws millions of international visitors.

Foreign tourists traveling in groups appear less concerned, as flight schedules at major Thai airports remain normal, said Adith Chairattananon, secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents.

"But tourists who haven’t yet booked trips to Thailand may decide to cancel their plans," he said. "The impact could become more apparent over the next two weeks."

In response to the earthquake, several Chinese travel platforms are now offering cancellation and refund options for travelers heading to Thailand, Global Times reported.

For hotel bookings made before March 28, 2025, with stays between March 28 and April 4 in Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, these platforms are offering full refunds and flexible airline ticket changes where airline policies allow.

To restore confidence, the Thai government has reassured visitors that it remains safe to travel to the country.

Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Buddhist temples, Thailand has welcomed 8.9 million foreign tourists since the beginning of the year, up 2.9% from the same period last year, according to official data.

The country’s tourism sector, a key pillar of the economy, has faced several challenges in recent months.

In January, Thailand was shaken by the high-profile kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing, also known as Xing Xing, prompting a decline in Chinese travelers due to safety concerns.