The index for the July-September period was recorded at 68, showing a slight year-on-year decline from 69, and a more significant decrease from 79 in the previous quarter, according to the Tourism Council of Thailand.
The ongoing floods, especially in the northern region, have caused substantial economic damage, with estimated losses exceeding 500 million baht (US$15 million), said Chamnan Srisawat, president of the council, as reported by the Bangkok Post.
Hotels were particularly affected by the September floods, with an average occupancy rate of 54% during the third quarter, Thaiger reported, adding only larger, international hotels managed to exceed the industry average.
The council expects the index to rise to 80 in the fourth quarter, driven by a surge in pre-bookings for the peak travel season and increased flight availability towards the year's end.
So far this year, Thailand has welcomed nearly 27 million foreign tourists and aims to reach 36 million by year's end.
Tourism revenue for 2024 is projected to reach up to 2.8 trillion baht (US$84 billion).