Border conflict tarnishes the perception of local travel

The Thai-Cambodian border conflict has damaged the image of Thai tourism, though the economic impact remains limited, with estimated losses of around 3 billion baht, mostly in border provinces.

- NARUMON KASEMSUK

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the seven provinces along the border were severely affected by the clashes between the two countries, while other provinces nationwide reported some cancellations.

Hotel room cancellations tallied more than 5,000 nationwide, with estimated losses of around 3 billion baht.

Mr Sorawong said during the clashes from July 21-27, Thai tourism recorded 1% growth, with around 618,000 tourists, compared with 611,000 visitors the previous week, July 14-20.

During the four-day retaliation from July 24-27, the number of visitors remained stable at 372,000, roughly the same as during July 17-20.