The visa exemption agreement between Thailand and China has significantly boosted tourism and cultural exchanges, according to Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Chinese tourists remained the largest international visitor group to Thailand in 2024. Meanwhile, Chinese destinations, particularly Harbin, have become increasingly popular among Thai travelers.

Since the visa exemption took effect in March 2024, bilateral tourism has expanded rapidly.Data from the China Cultural Center in Bangkok show a 493.8 percent year-on-year increase in Thai visitors to China in the first half of 2024. At the same time, Thailand's tourism authorities reported that 6.73 million Chinese tourists visited the country in 2024, marking a 91.7 percent increase from the previous year.Thapanee noted that the rise in Chinese tourists has contributed significantly to Thailand’s economy, benefiting sectors such as tourism services, agriculture, and food production.

Improved online travel platforms and expanded direct flight routes have made trip planning more accessible.Harbin’s winter tourism has emerged as a major attraction for Thai visitors, offering a stark contrast to Thailand’s tropical climate.

Thapanee recalled her recent visit to Harbin, where she experienced temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius and admired the city’s winter landscape.As Harbin hosts the Ninth Asian Winter Games, Thapanee extended her best wishes to participating athletes and praised China's expertise in organizing international sporting events, citing the Beijing Olympics as an example.To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Thailand-China diplomatic relations, the TAT is organizing year-round events, beginning with grand Chinese New Year celebrations across Thailand.

These events will highlight cultural connections while promoting Thai attractions such as local cuisine, hospitality, and adventure tourism.With sports tourism gaining prominence, Thailand plans to host international sporting events, including marathons, trail running, and motorcycle racing, to attract more Chinese sports enthusiasts.Addressing safety concerns, Thapanee emphasized Thailand’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for visitors.

The Thai government, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, is leveraging AI-powered surveillance, multilingual support hotlines, and mobile applications to enhance tourist safety.