The Tourism Authority of Thailand expects this year’s industry revenue to surpass the original target of 2.41 trillion THB and reach 2.57 trillion THB, the Bangkok Post reports.
Domestic and international tourism income is projected to be around THB 1330 billion in the second half of 2016. The number of foreign visitors will grow by 16%, to 17.4 million, generating a spend of THB 897 billion, a 20% year-on-year increase. Domestic tourism is slated to rise by 5.6%, to 78 million trips, and generate 440 billion THB, up 7.7%.
Forward bookings between July and December increased by 10%, bookings from the U.S. surged by 31%, and those from Europe rose 13%, according to the TAT governor Yuthasak Supasorn.
State tourism officials are in talks with Thai and international airlines, especially low-cost carriers, concerning the launch of new routes – something they feel will help boost tourism and attract even more foreign travelers.