What Percentage of Thailand GDP Is Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture. It’s no surprise that tourism plays a significant role in the country’s economy.

But just how big of a role does it play? Let’s dive into the numbers and find out.

What is GDP?

Before we get into the specifics of Thailand’s tourism industry, let’s first define what GDP is. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total value of goods and services produced within a country’s borders over a specific period, usually one year.

Thailand’s GDP

According to the World Bank, Thailand had a GDP of $505.9 billion in 2019. This makes it the 22nd largest economy in the world. The country has seen steady economic growth over the past few decades, with an average annual growth rate of 4.3% from 2000 to 2019.

Tourism in Thailand

Tourism is one of Thailand’s most significant industries and accounts for a large portion of its GDP. In fact, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, tourism contributed 20% to Thailand’s GDP in 2019.

Number of Tourists

In 2019, Thailand welcomed a record-breaking 39.8 million tourists. This was an increase from 38.3 million tourists in 2018.

Revenue from Tourism

Tourism not only contributes to Thailand’s GDP but also brings in significant revenue for the country. In 2019, tourism generated $66 billion in revenue for Thailand.

Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism

Unfortunately, like many countries around the world, Thailand has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions and lockdowns have led to a significant decrease in tourism. In 2020, the number of tourists visiting Thailand dropped by 83% compared to the previous year.

Conclusion

Tourism plays a crucial role in Thailand’s economy, contributing 20% to its GDP. The industry brings in significant revenue and creates jobs for millions of people in the country. While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on tourism in Thailand, the country remains optimistic about its ability to bounce back once travel restrictions are lifted.