In times of political upheaval, Thailand’s foreign vacationers wouldn’t be considerably impacted, until there was an incident akin to 2008’s airport disruption, in accordance with former tourism and sports activities minister, Weerasak Kowsurat. Back in 2008, protesters had shut down Bangkok’s airports leading to a drop in tourist visits, impacting Thai tourism.
Weerasak, now serving as a senator, insists that tourists are diligent in keeping up with their travel commitments, supplied that the political demonstrations do not intervene with their plans. The democratic process, and any ensuing peaceable protests that come with it, are, by and enormous, seen as home points by tourists that can influence Thai tourism.
During his time as tourism minister, Weerasak witnessed tourists unperturbed by nearby street protests whereas still on their holidays in Ratchadamnoen Avenue, the place the ministry’s headquarters is situated. Nonetheless, he stressed that an intensive disruption such as an airport seizure could lead to a drastic downturn in the influx of tourists, just because it had in 2008.
To this extent, any potential political unrest should warrant a contingency plan, particularly for managing possible violence, proposed Weerasak.
He identified the hefty setbacks to the country’s economic system and Thai tourism sector caused by the 10-day closure of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in 2008. The financial injury was estimated to be 200 billion baht. Three years later, a gaggle of protesters have been ordered by the Civil Court to pay 522 million baht as compensation for the losses incurred throughout this era, reported Bangkok Post.
Weerasak urged the incoming tourism minister to have an open mind, hearken to varying viewpoints, and establish a robust rapport with huge corporations, local communities, and SMEs alike. He emphasised that the Thai tourism industry must equally tackle all these sectors.
Unconventional are still vying for loans or financial assistance to maintain up their businesses. Thus, he stated, the new minister must guarantee advantages are distributed equitably to SMEs.
Weerasak additionally really helpful that Thailand should improve its competitive edge by striving to turn into a sustainable vacationer location through the implementation of an environmental, social and governance technique, boosting Thai tourism on a broader scale..