In Thailand, the domestic tourism market faces potential setbacks due to rising consumer loans and increasing mortgage defaults, as highlighted in the latest report from the National Economic and Social Development Council.

Under these economic pressures, tourism operators worry that promotions linked to festivals and events may be insufficient to spur demand.

The economic uncertainty particularly affects the mass market, with many Thai tourists restricting leisure spending.

Udom Srimahachota, vice-president of the Thai Hotels Association's western chapter, notes that high-end consumers are opting to travel abroad to places like Japan, Europe, and China due to visa-free entry, rather than visiting domestic spots such as Pattaya and Hua Hin.

The Thai government efforts, such as year-round tourism promotions, have not significantly enhanced domestic travel, as economic concerns loom.

Udom suggests that the government should focus on economic measures like debt restructuring rather than one-time cash handouts.

Kantapong Thananerngroth, president of the Thai Tourism Promotion Association, mentions that the government's suspension of interest payments for mortgages, vehicles, and SMEs might improve the situation in the coming months.

However, more strategic planning for events and income distribution is needed to bolster the domestic tourism sector.