Thailand has again moderated its expectations for tourist arrivals this year.
It has cut its forecast from 10 million arrivals this year to five million.
Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, the Tourism Minister says if it can gain five million that would be a measure of success under current circumstances.
"The number of travellers from long-haul destinations would be insufficient to reach the goal of 10 million arrivals," Phiphat said.
With few long haul travellers expected until much later in the year, it is basing its projections on the regional Asia market.
Phiphat said Thailand needs to show it is a safe destination for travellers from China, India and Malaysia, which make up about 40% of total inbound tourism.
The Public Health Ministry is developing a ‘vaccine passport; which would be smartphone or smart card compatible.
Once it rolls out, vaccinated tourists may be able to enter Thailand.
Thailand’s mass vaccination plan is set to roll out next month and Phiphat is pushing for tourism industry workers to be included in the first priority group.
Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Editor
