Southeast Asia's second largest economy plans to reinstate $8 tourist tax

"I believe collecting the tourism fee will benefit the industry, as the revenue can be used to develop infrastructure and attractions, and ensure tourist safety," said Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong, as reported by the Bangkok Post.

Foreign visitors arriving by air will be charged 300 baht, while those entering by sea or land will pay 150 baht.

Sorawong noted that further study on the system's readiness is needed before the ministry can decide whether to implement the fee within the final quarter of this year.

The tourism fee scheme, initially approved by the cabinet in 2022, has yet to be enforced, pending publication in the Royal Gazette.

The Thai government estimates that foreign tourist arrivals will reach 35.99 million by the end of this year, a 28% increase from the previous year. Tourism revenue is expected to rise to 1.8 trillion baht, reflecting a 32% increase compared to the previous year.

In 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand, whose economy heavily relies on tourism, welcomed a record 39.9 million foreign visitors, generating 1.91 trillion baht (US$55.8 billion) in revenue.