Thai Times

Covering the Thai Renaissance
Friday, Jan 30, 2026

Thailand Forecasts 42.23 Billion-Baht Upswing in Tourism Revenue for Chinese New Year 2026

Tourism Authority projects a double-digit increase in spending driven by foreign visitors and strong domestic travel over the festive period
Thailand’s tourism sector is poised for robust growth during the Chinese New Year 2026 festival, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand forecasting total revenue of 42.23 billion baht during the peak holiday period from February thirteenth to twenty-second.

The anticipated figure represents a thirteen percent increase from the previous year’s earnings, reflecting strengthening travel demand and an uptick in forward bookings from key markets including China and neighbouring countries.

International travellers are expected to account for the bulk of the surge, with approximately 1.25 million overseas tourists projected to visit Thailand over the festival, generating around 35.48 billion baht in tourism receipts.

This marks a notable rise in both arrivals and spending compared with the same holiday last year, as global interest in Thailand’s cultural experiences, dining and retail sectors remains high.

Meanwhile, domestic tourism is forecast to contribute 6.75 billion baht from an estimated 2.3 million trips by Thai residents, further bolstering overall economic impact.

Industry officials attribute the optimistic outlook to comprehensive promotional campaigns, strategic partnerships with travel agents, and shifting travel dynamics that have seen some visitors redirect plans from other destinations, creating opportunities for Thailand to capture increased patronage.

Tourism Authority Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool emphasised that the Chinese New Year period is one of the most significant on Thailand’s tourism calendar, offering momentum for broader sector recovery after earlier shortfalls in some international source markets.

With businesses preparing a range of cultural, retail and hospitality offerings to meet heightened demand, the forecasted revenue surge underscores the resilience of Thailand’s travel industry and its continued appeal as a leading global destination.
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