The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is revising its strategy for the latter half of the year to tackle the sluggish Chinese market and the diminished confidence following a recent earthquake.

A new crisis management team will be formed, featuring representatives from various organizations within the tourism supply chain, including the Interior Ministry and the Department of Land Transport.

The ministry intends to partner with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to issue certifications for hotels that have successfully passed safety inspections after the earthquake.

Last year saw 6.7 million Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, with this year's projections around 7 million, a decline from the record 11 million in pre-Covid 2019. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong emphasized that the ministry will strive to convey a unified message, ensuring Thailand is perceived as a safe travel destination.

Furthermore, the ministry plans to engage in discussions with the Chinese ambassador to help rebuild confidence.

In addition, prominent Chinese media influencers will be invited to affirm that all provinces in Thailand are safe for travelers.

With the Songkran celebrations approaching, all planned activities will move forward, and tourists are encouraged to download the Thailand Tourist Police app for notifications during extraordinary events.

The average hotel occupancy rate for April and the Songkran period is projected at about 60%, a decrease from last year's 65%.

Airline bookings fell by 40-60% in the two days following the earthquake, with a notable 60% reduction in bookings from China.