Thai authorities warmly greeted approximately 300 Chinese tourists arriving in Bangkok on the first day of a new visa-free entry program. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, along with the tourism minister and other VIPs, welcomed the visitors from Shanghai with gifts and photos.
The program aims to rejuvenate Thailand’s tourism industry, which was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thai officials plan to promote lesser-known cities as destinations for Chinese tourists to encourage longer stays and increased spending.
“We are confident that this policy will greatly boost the economy,” Srettha told reporters.