In a recent announcement, the Thai government revealed plans to reintroduce a tourism tax of 300 baht (approximately INR 750). This update was shared by the newly appointed Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, who took office on September 16, 2024.
Minister’s Vision for Tourism Growth
Minister Sorawong expressed his commitment to revitalizing Thailand’s tourism sector, aiming to boost the country’s tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht within a year. He believes that the reintroduction of this tourism fee will significantly benefit the industry. The revenue generated from the tax is intended to enhance infrastructure, develop tourist attractions, and ensure the safety of visitors. However, he noted that more time is needed to evaluate the most effective way to implement the tax before moving forward.
Structure of Thailand’s Tourism Tax
The proposed tourism tax will feature a structured fee system:
For Air Visitors: 300 baht (around INR 750)
For Land or Sea Travelers: 150 baht (around INR 380)
Certain groups will be exempt from this tax:
- Children under the age of two
- Transit passengers
- Holders of diplomatic passports
- Individuals with work permits
Global Context of Tourism Taxes
Thailand’s initiative is not unique, as several prominent tourist destinations worldwide have implemented similar taxes. Cities such as Edinburgh and Barcelona impose regional taxes and city surcharges. In Paris, fees are based on accommodation type and star rating, with luxury hotels facing higher rates. Venice also has a tourist tax that varies by location and type of accommodation.
In Austria, there is a nightly accommodation tax that varies by province, while Belgium’s tourist tax fluctuates depending on the city and hotel size or rating. For instance, in Brussels, this tax can reach around €7.50 (approximately INR 702) per room.
Additionally, Bhutan enforces a daily fee of $100 (around INR 8,395) aimed at limiting visitor numbers to protect its environment and cultural heritage. This tax is expected to remain in effect until at least 2027.
Conclusion
As Thailand prepares to reintroduce its tourism tax, it joins a growing list of countries recognizing the potential benefits of such fees for enhancing their tourism sectors while preserving their unique environments and cultures. Travelers should stay informed about this development as it could impact future visits to Thailand.