Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia that is known for its beautiful beaches, unique culture, and delicious food. The tourism industry in Thailand has been growing steadily over the years and has become a significant contributor to the country’s economy. In this article, we will take a closer look at just how big the tourism industry is in Thailand.
The Importance of Tourism in Thailand
Tourism is one of the most important industries in Thailand. It contributes significantly to the country’s GDP and provides employment opportunities for millions of people. In fact, according to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism directly contributed 9.7% of Thailand’s GDP in 2019.
Tourism Statistics
Thailand welcomed a record-breaking 39.8 million tourists in 2019, up from 38.3 million the previous year. This figure includes both international and domestic tourists.
In terms of international arrivals, China was the largest source market with 10.99 million visitors, followed by Malaysia with 4.11 million visitors and India with 1.96 million visitors.
The average length of stay for international tourists was around nine days, and they spent an average of $1,630 per trip.
Tourism Revenue
Tourism generates significant revenue for Thailand’s economy. In 2019, tourism revenue amounted to THB1.93 trillion (US$63 billion), up from THB1.67 trillion (US$54 billion) in 2018.
The majority of tourism revenue comes from international tourists who spend money on accommodation, food and beverage, shopping, entertainment activities, and transportation.
The Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the tourism industry in Thailand as well as globally. The Thai government closed its borders to foreign tourists in April 2020, resulting in a sharp decline in visitor arrivals.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), international tourist arrivals dropped by 83.2% year-on-year in 2020, with only 6.7 million visitors compared to 39.8 million in 2019.
In response to the pandemic, the Thai government has implemented various measures to support the tourism industry, such as offering financial aid and tax relief to businesses and promoting domestic tourism.
Conclusion
The tourism industry is an essential part of Thailand’s economy, providing employment opportunities and generating significant revenue. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the industry, it is expected to recover gradually as travel restrictions are eased and vaccinations become more widespread. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Thailand is sure to continue attracting millions of tourists from around the world for years to come.