Cash coupons for international tourists
Thailand’s tourism industry is sounding the alarm. Leading voices are calling on the new minister to take immediate action with emergency incentives to support the sector during the upcoming low season.
Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, urged the government to consider cash coupons for foreign tourists. “We need competitive incentives like travel vouchers for international visitors,” he said, pointing to successful programs in Taiwan and other Asian countries.
The proposed coupons would be flexible, redeemable in any shop, directly channeling spending into local communities. The move comes amid intensifying competition as regional neighbors ramp up efforts to attract travelers.
Dual strategy: foreigners and domestic market
Alongside measures for foreign visitors, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is planning to extend its domestic co-payment program. Of the 500,000 travel discounts launched in July, more than 15,000 remain available for so-called “secondary cities.” The scheme is due to end on October 31.
Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association, endorsed the two-track approach. “We need both immediate measures and long-term planning for the 2025 low season,” he stressed, adding that safety and trust remain crucial for attracting foreign visitors.
Political race against the clock
Politics heightens the urgency. The Kla Tham Party is expected to take over the Tourism Ministry in the new Bhumjaithai-led coalition, but will have only about four months before parliament dissolves ahead of elections.
“There is no time for delays. Quick, decisive action is critical,” Ratchaporn warned. Beyond tourist vouchers, he also called for the revival of the “Half-Half” travel program to boost domestic spending and tighter regulation of the medical cannabis sector.
Global pressures and economic stakes
Behind the demands lie serious economic concerns. Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, said: “The new minister must work closely with TAT and the private sector to quickly grasp the tourism landscape.”
Despite optimism for the high season, Ratchaporn cautioned against global risks, particularly US tariffs, which could hurt Thai tourism. “We urgently need to attract both leisure travelers and the MICE market while restoring visitor confidence in safety,” he said.
What this means for travelers
For tourists, financial perks may soon be on the horizon. The planned coupons would be handed directly to foreign visitors, redeemable with Thai businesses. At the same time, safety measures and fraud prevention are set to be strengthened.
Tourism accounts for around 20 percent of Thailand’s GDP and employs millions. Industry leaders hope the new minister acts fast to keep Thailand competitive before the high season begins and travelers look elsewhere.