Thailand wants to exchange tourists: quality control against scandals!

Thailand wants to exchange tourists: quality control against scandals!

Thailand is still a dream destination for many travelers. The white beaches, the dense jungle greenery and the unparalleled hospitality attract tourists from all over the world. But behind the idyllic scenes there are worrying developments. Chalermpong Saengdee, a member of the Thai parliament, is sounding the alarm: He wants to make entry conditions for tourists much more difficult. The reason? An increasing inappropriate behavior exhibited by some visitors. In particular, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has already been contacted on this matter to take action.

Last year, the visa exemption for several countries, including Germany, was extended from 30 to 60 days. Although this decision led to an increase in the number of tourists and thus also in income, the price was high: reports of drug use and the distribution of pornographic videos were increasing. The negative impacts, including illegal activities and job losses, are prompting locals to voice their concerns loudly. Chayambee, a local political player, points out that Thailand's long-term image is being severely damaged, while reports of unrest, particularly by Russian tourists, are alarming.

The current situation of tourism

Phuket, a tourism hotspot, had already recorded 887,000 visitors by July 2025, with 43% coming from Europe. But the positive trend could come to a halt. Thailand may not reach the target number of tourists this year. In the first quarter of 2025, the country recorded only a small increase of 1.91% compared to the previous year with 9.5 million arrivals. The falling numbers in the following months are worrying: in January 2025, 3,709,102 tourists came, in March the number fell to 2,720,457. The decline in Chinese travelers was particularly drastic.

In addition, Ramadan in Malaysia has led to a noticeable decline in arrivals. Forecasts for April, a month of revival, were clouded by several events, including an earthquake. Thai tourism is struggling to breathe, especially during the low season from April to September.

The Future of Thai Tourism

The original target of 39 million arrivals for 2025 appears unrealistic, so the Tourism Authority of Thailand is now expecting 36 to 37 million. Given strong competition from cheaper destinations such as Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Cambodia, Thailand faces a huge challenge. Negative headlines and recurring crises are weighing on the mood, while India's tourist market is seen as a new source of hope.

The situation in Thailand is complex and tangible solutions are needed. Given the existing structural problems in the tourism sector, in-depth self-reflection is essential. It remains to be seen whether the planned measures to check the “quality” of tourists and the discussion about visa restrictions will actually take effect. The necessary changes are definitely underway.

How long can Thailand continue to face these challenges without endangering its rich culture and friendly image? Time will tell.

You can find out more about the background and developments at OVB Online, Mirror and Thailand Tip.