BANGKOK: (Bernama) The Thai government is currently conducting a public consultation on a proposed tourism fee of 450 baht (approximately RM55.35) for all foreign visitors.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that the proposal will be open for public consultation until Sept 28 before submission to the National Tourism Policy Committee for review.
According to Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, the proposed rate is a flat 450 baht per person, regardless of whether visitors arrive by air, land, or sea.
"The funds raised will go towards upgrading Thailand's tourism infrastructure and safety standards, helping the sector grow without relying entirely on the state budget," he said in a statement published on the Thai Public Relations Department website.
The Thai government expects to begin collecting the fee in the first quarter of 2027, after Cabinet approval and publication in the Royal Gazette.
The plan for a tourist entry fee for Thailand was first mooted around 2019 to 2020. The flat rate of 450 baht was proposed in August this year after revision.
Last year, Thailand welcomed approximately 33 million foreign tourists, which could generate an estimated 14.8 billion baht for the tourism fund. - Bernama
