Bangkok-
The Thai Government spokeswoman held a press conference today, September 13, 2020 in which she discussed foreign tourism.
The Thai economy is heavily dependent on foreign tourism and millions, especially in the informal sector, are employed in the industry.
With areas like Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui devastated by the impact of a closure of borders and lack of foreign tourists the Ministry Of Public Health and Thai Tourism Authority have been working hard on possible solutions to safely allow in tourists.
However, as the Covid19 pandemic continues to rage across the globe many prominent Thai residents are against bringing in foreign tourists, even with the strictest of precautions. Business leaders, meanwhile, have warned that keeping borders closed for another three to six months could see a total collapse of the hospitality industry in Thailand and up to seven million out of work.
The Christmas season is generally referred to as “High Season” in Thailand and for many businesses make the majority of profit for the year. If Thailand stays closed for this tourist season the impact on the economy is likely to be significant.
The Government spokeswoman, Ms. Trisulee Traisoranakul, said today that the government is doing everything in its power to make sure they are listening to both sides and addressing all concerns regarding letting in tourists. She stated the Prime Minister was sympathetic for the devastation the tourism industry was having and had seen first hand the impact on a visit to Chonburi earlier this month.
She stated, as The Pattaya News addressed last week, a meeting will be held by the Thai Cabinet on Tuesday, September 15, to further discuss tourism related ideas including a potential long stay tourist visa.
She stressed that the will of the people had to be listened to, pointing to an example of prominent Phuket citizens voicing opposition to letting in foreign tourists as well as the Phi Phi islands also rejecting any foreign tourism plan.
Pattaya and Koh Samui, however, have stated they would like to trial the plan if other destinations refuse.
The ultimate decision, however, is up to the Thai Cabinet and the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration.
