Calls for vouchers for foreign visitors

Tourism operators are urging the new tourism minister to give cash coupons to foreign visitors to spend in Thailand, similar to practices in other countries, and plan ahead for next year’s low season immediately.

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) also said it will propose extending the domestic tourism co-payment scheme with the remaining funds from the first phase, which will end on Oct 31.

Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, said that within the limited period in which it will be in power, the government should consider quick-win measures or incentives to compete with other competitors in Asia.

Examples include travel cash coupons that foreign tourists are able to use at any store, which would distribute income to local communities, resembling a similar scheme that has been implemented in Taiwan.