Thursday, January 25, 2024
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In a move set to revolutionize travel dynamics, China and Thailand are on the brink of signing a groundbreaking visa-waiver agreement, heralding a new era for tourists starting March 1. This historic move will be cemented during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Thailand, scheduled from January 26 to 29, as announced by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The agreement, a result of proactive diplomacy and mutual interests, is a strategic effort to rejuvenate Thailand’s tourism sector, heavily reliant on Chinese visitors. Prior to the pandemic, Chinese tourists formed the largest group of visitors to Thailand. The new visa policy is poised to rekindle this trend, propelling the industry towards a robust recovery.
The bilateral deal comes as a timely progression from a temporary visa exemption for Chinese visitors, set to expire on February 29. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand had previously hinted at this development, highlighting its importance for the nation’s tourism-driven economic growth.
Wang’s visit, the first of its kind since July 2022, is not just about signing the visa agreement. It’s a strategic collaboration aimed at bolstering trade, investment, security, and tourism ties. Additionally, it provides a platform for discussing broader regional and international issues, underlining the multifaceted nature of the China-Thailand relationship.
In 2019, before the pandemic struck, over a quarter of Thailand’s 40 million foreign visitors were from China. However, in 2023, this number dwindled to approximately 3.5 million out of 28 million tourists. The anticipated visa-free agreement is expected to bring a significant surge in these numbers. Industry experts, like Mr. Bill Heinecke, chairman of Minor International, are optimistic about the accelerated return of Chinese tourists, a vital component for Thailand’s target of 35 million foreign arrivals in 2024, including eight million from China.
Under the new visa arrangement, Chinese tourists can enjoy up to 30 days per entry in Thailand, with a similar privilege extended to Thai tourists in China. Additionally, multiple entries within 180 days permit a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, as clarified by Thai government spokesman Chai Wacharonke.
This visa-free travel pact between China and Thailand marks a significant milestone in international travel post-pandemic, promising a resurgence of tourism and deeper cultural exchanges between the two nations.