Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, also the finance minister, unveiled this ambition during a strategic session called "Ignite Thailand: Tourism" at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

The "Ignite Thailand" vision aims to position the country as a top destination across eight sectors: tourism, medical and wellness, food and agriculture, aviation, logistics, future mobility, the digital economy, and finance.

Srettha declared that 2025 would mark Thailand's most significant tourism year during his international visits. He highlighted policies to ease tourist travel, including temporary visa exemptions for visitors from select countries and a recent visa exemption agreement with China.

The government is negotiating for visa-free arrangements with Schengen area European countries and plans to enhance infrastructure and immigration systems for a positive impression on international visitors.

During trips to Germany and France, the Prime Minister met with Formula E executives considering Thailand for a race, enhancing its tourism and regional hub status. Formula E, which started in 2014, could stage its inaugural Thai race in Chiang Mai.

Emphasizing a shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), Thailand sees EVs comprising 40% of recent car orders. Srettha stressed capitalizing on Thailand's cultural "soft power," ensuring the brainstorming session's output will facilitate tourism growth and infrastructure.

Thailand plans to organize diverse cultural and sports events, including Formula E and world food festivals. The government is also collaborating with major retailers to promote local products through "Thainess Station: Thai Products Unify Thai Communities," showcasing Thai handicrafts in prominent shopping hubs until April 30.