Thailand’s new Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, is considering reintroducing the 300-baht tourism tax, which had been shelved during the previous administration led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The minister also aims to push tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht this year.

According to the Bangkok Post, Sorawong, who took office on Monday, highlighted the advantages of the tourism fee, noting that the revenue generated could be used for improving infrastructure, developing tourist attractions, and ensuring safety for visitors. “I believe the collection of the tourism fee benefits the tourism industry since the revenue can be used for the development of infrastructure and attractions, along with ensuring tourist safety,” Sorawong said.

The tourism fee, initially approved by the cabinet in 2022, has yet to be formally enacted, as it has not been published in the Royal Gazette. The fee structure remains the same as when it was proposed five years ago, with air travellers being charged 300 baht (approximately ?750) and land or sea visitors 150 baht (approximately ?378).

Sorawong stated that more time is needed to study the system’s readiness. As a result, no decision has been made on whether the fee will be introduced in the final quarter. The ministry is expected to review the procedure in a way that does not discourage tourism, Bangkok Post reported.