Tariffs to hit tourism sentiment

The ongoing stock market slump fuelled by US tariffs could impact domestic tourism sentiment for the rest of the year, including next week's Songkran holiday, with fewer last-minute hotel bookings and tour groups.

- MOLPARSORN SOWOONG

Kantapong Thanarueetiroj, president of the Thai Tourism Promotion Association, said many domestic tour agents received fewer bookings from local tour groups than expected for Songkran, attributed to weakened spending and travel sentiment.

He said middle-to lower-income groups are cutting back on domestic trips, while the high spending segment has opted for overseas excursions during the holiday.

Many domestic tourists may still travel within their regions, but will restrict their shopping budgets during the trips, said Mr Kantapong.

"Though people have been cautious in managing their financial discipline, they are concerned about being affected by unexpected events, such as the US tariffs and the recent earthquake," he said.